Disorder - Septal defect

Organ Systems Involved
Cardiovascular

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Heart failure; Tetralogy of Fallot

Alternative Names
Atrial septal defect; Ventricular septal defect

Presenting Signs

There are four chambers in the heart; of these, two are called ventricles and two are called atria. A septal defect occurs when the barrier (septum) between either the atria or the ventricles does not form properly during pregnancy. This results in abnormal blood-flow within the heart.

A septal defect may go undetected for years showing no symptoms. Occasionally defects will close spontaneously within the first two years of life. Small defects are usually not important, as the animal will still have a normal life. Depending on the size of the defect and its location, the clinical signs and their onset will vary between individuals. Most signs of a septal defect, however, occur because the heart is unable to adequately pump oxygenated blood around the body; this is known as heart failure. Signs of heart failure may include: weakness, lethargy, exercise intolerance, coughing, difficulty breathing, enlarged abdomen and fainting. Heart failure is a life threatening condition. Heart failure is managed through medical treatment as surgery is usually not available.

Cats at Risk

Cats that have been bred from affected parents or parents that have had affected offspring before.

Breeds Affected
British Shorthair
Burmese
Chartreux
Maine Coon
Persian
Siamese


Treatment

Medical
Surgical

PubMed References
Septal defect

Contributor
Clancy Crean