Cat Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia in Research Paper

Cat Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia in Daschunds - Research Paper Example An increased dependency on formulated cat foods produces the potential for deficiency, but the same formulations allow for the correction of this lack. Total Nutrient programs from the pet food industry are the response to this valid concern. Vision loss, as well as cardiomyopathy, can result from such dietary deficiencies. (Hayes et al. 1982), (Hills Pet Nutrition, 2011) This report outlines the pathology of feline dilated cardiomyopathy and related heart conditions, as well as contributing factors. The prognosis and treatment modalities are discussed; as well as means by which this condition can be prevented. Cats do not possess the ability to synthesize the amino acid Taurine; which is necessary for muscle growth; and proper retinal development in kittens. This is presumed to be a central factor in the evolutionary development of felines. Modern processed cat food contains nutritional supplements to alleviate this problem. Feline DCMs now relatively rare. In the past, feline dilated cardiomyopathy could be blamed on the dietary deficiency in the amino acid taurine. (Petplace Veterinarians, 2011), (Pion, et al. 1987) Taurine is an essential component of the feline diet, whereas dogs do not require it. (Pion et al. 2007) The breeds typically affected are Abyssinian, Burmese, Siamese, and mixed/mongrel housecats. The Catfood industry responds to this risk by taking steps to ensure taurine dietary supplements are included as basic nutrition in most cat foods. The feline food industry has risen to the challenge of addressing the need for nutritional supplements in a form highly palatable to the animals. At the same time, the more sedentary lifestyles that felines and canines now share with their human owners still creates its own battery of assorted health risks to all three species. (Obesity is a noteworthy factor.) In terms of diagnosis, a complete medical history should be provided to the veterinary  professional. Initially, a thorough physical examination is performed.