I’ve been noticing some weird signs in my American Shorthair cat lately. She’s been pretty lethargic, eating less, and I even noticed rapid breathing. Anyone else’s cat have health problems like heart disease or urinary issues? I’m kinda worried because I’ve read that heart disease can be an issue for these cats. 
My cat had heart disease, specifically hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). It was tough, but regular vet visits and some meds helped. Definitely get your cat checked out by a vet.
Darian said:
My cat had heart disease, specifically hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). It was tough, but regular vet visits and some meds helped. Definitely get your cat checked out by a vet.
Oh, what exactly does HCM mean? I’ve never heard of it before.
@Perrin
HCM is when the heart muscle thickens and makes it harder for the heart to pump blood properly. It’s something a vet can diagnose with imaging. Hope that helps!
My Shorthair has had urinary issues before. FLUTD sounds scary, but regular vet visits and meds helped him out. Definitely don’t wait if you see those symptoms!
Vernon said:
My Shorthair has had urinary issues before. FLUTD sounds scary, but regular vet visits and meds helped him out. Definitely don’t wait if you see those symptoms!
What exactly are the symptoms of FLUTD? I’m not sure if that’s what my cat’s going through.
@Zan
It’s things like urinating outside the litter box, bloody urine, or crying while trying to pee. Definitely keep an eye out for those signs.
I’ve heard American Shorthairs can also get kidney problems like renal failure. I always make sure to get my cat checked for that regularly. It’s scary, but catching it early makes a big difference.
Amar said:
I’ve heard American Shorthairs can also get kidney problems like renal failure. I always make sure to get my cat checked for that regularly. It’s scary, but catching it early makes a big difference.
What does renal failure look like in cats? I’m not familiar with the signs.
@Ren
It’s usually weight loss, increased thirst, and more frequent urination. Definitely get your cat checked if you notice any of those symptoms.
I had no idea that diabetes and hyperthyroidism were so common in American Shorthairs. Keeping my cat’s diet in check and regular checkups seems to help, though.
Zimri said:
I had no idea that diabetes and hyperthyroidism were so common in American Shorthairs. Keeping my cat’s diet in check and regular checkups seems to help, though.
What’s hyperthyroidism? I didn’t even know cats could get that.
@Drew
It’s when the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone T4. It can cause issues like weight loss and increased thirst. Luckily, it’s treatable with meds.
I’m looking into getting insurance for my American Shorthair since these health issues seem pretty common. Anyone here have pet insurance for their cats?
Fern said:
I’m looking into getting insurance for my American Shorthair since these health issues seem pretty common. Anyone here have pet insurance for their cats?
Yeah, I signed up for pet insurance for my cat. It’s been super helpful for covering vet costs, especially with all these health issues popping up.
@Cody
Good to know! I’ll definitely look into it. The cost of vet visits adds up fast.