u/Life_Confection_5649

If you’re thinking about getting a Sphynx kitty, please be aware of HCM.

HCM stands for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, the most common heart disease in cats. It causes the walls of the heart—especially the left ventricle—to become abnormally thick, making it harder for the heart to fill with and pump blood efficiently.

Many cats with HCM show no signs in the early stages, which is why routine screening is so important. An annual HCM screening typically includes an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) performed by a veterinary cardiologist. Detecting changes early allows for close monitoring and, if needed, treatment.

A reputable breeder will screen their breeding cats and manage HCM risk to the best of their ability. However, despite responsible breeding practices, HCM can still occur. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that a cat will never develop the disease.

That’s why I encourage all owners to have their babies screened with an HCM echocardiogram every year, or every couple of years, especially as they get older. Regular heart screenings are one of the best ways to catch changes early and help your cat live a longer, healthier life.

Veronica turns 5 this years and she is in perfect health.

Wishing all hairless and fur kitties happy healthy long lives.

How often do you bath your babe? Veronica gets a bath two times a week because she has a skin fungal condition.