Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a cardiac disease that alters the thickness and elasticity of the walls of the heart. Sphynx are quite prone to this condition, so anyone interested in the breed should be keenly aware of the risk. When HCM develops, the left ventricle typically thickens and eventually the left atrium responds by thinning out and becoming flaccid. This can change the atrium’s ability to contract and often results in clots forming that can enter the circulatory system. Clots are commonly passed to either front leg, one or both back legs and also the lungs. These are known as embolisms and they’re often one of the first obvious symptoms that owners see when their cat has this condition. This symptom does indicate advanced disease and the necessity for aggressive care involving a Veterinary Cardiologist cannot be understated. You can find one in your area here.

This condition can also cause congestive heart failure involving respiratory struggle, coughing, wheezing, panting, blue mucus membranes, etc; inactivity; unreasonable heat-seeking behavior; cool body temp or poor circulation, acute collapse/syncope/fainting, etc.