By Dr.Jonathan Reed
When Your Vet Hears That Mysterious ‘Whoosh’: A Cat Owner’s Guide to Heart Murmurs & How CoQ10 Supplements Might Help
Introduction: A Moment in the Clinic
Imagine this: You bring your beloved cat, Luna, for her annual check-up. The vet listens with a stethoscope, pauses, then says, “I hear a little murmur.” You freeze — what does that mean? Is her heart failing? Is this serious? As a caring cat owner, it’s natural to worry. In this article, we’ll walk you through what a heart murmur in cats means, what to expect, and how a well-formulated CoQ10 supplement (like a soft-chew version) might support heart health under veterinary supervision.
Disclaimer: This information is for education only and should not replace your veterinarian’s advice. Always consult with your cat’s veterinarian before introducing supplements.
What Is a Heart Murmur, in Simple Terms?
A heart murmur is an extra sound — like a swoosh or whoosh — that the vet may hear when listening to your cat’s chest. It results from blood moving turbulently through cardiac structures. MedVet
But here’s the important bit: a murmur isn’t a disease — it’s a clue. Some murmurs are benign (harmless), while others hint at underlying cardiac changes. MetLife Pet Insurance
Everyday Signs You Might Watch For
Many cats with mild or early heart disease show no obvious signs. But over time, you might notice:
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Less energy, reluctance to jump or play
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Poor appetite or weight loss
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Faster or more labored breathing, especially after exertion or at rest
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More sleeping, less exploration
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Pale gums or occasional collapse
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In extreme cases: sudden hind leg paralysis (from arterial blood clots) PetMD
If you see any of these, it’s time to get your vet involved.
What Happens After the Vet Detects a Murmur?
When your vet hears a murmur, they may recommend further testing to figure out what’s causing it:
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Blood and general health workup
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Chest X-ray to see heart size and lung fluid
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ECG to check for arrhythmias
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Echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) — this is the most definitive test to visualize heart structure, valve motions, blood flow, and chambers. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
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Additional monitoring or biomarkers as needed
From there, your vet can explain whether the murmur is benign or related to structural disease.
So, Where Does CoQ10 Come In?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a naturally occurring molecule in cells that helps produce energy (ATP) and fight oxidative stress (free radicals). It’s especially important in tissues with high energy demand — like heart muscle.
In veterinary practice, CoQ10 is sometimes used as a supplemental therapy in cats and dogs with cardiac or neurologic conditions.
CoQ10 supplementation in cats is considered fairly safe, particularly when given with food (especially a fatty meal). The caveat: there is not yet solid clinical evidence in cats showing that CoQ10 can reverse heart disease or dramatically change outcomes. TUFTS
However, as a supportive supplement — alongside veterinary care, monitoring, and therapies — CoQ10 soft chews might help by:
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Supporting energy generation in cardiac cells
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Mitigating oxidative stress in the heart
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Complementing diet, lifestyle, and medical interventions
How to Use CoQ10 Soft Chews Safely & Smartly
If you and your veterinarian choose to add a CoQ10 soft chew supplement, here are best practices:
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Choose a pet-specific, high-quality formulation with verified ingredients
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Administer with food, particularly fatty meals, to improve absorption
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Start with a conservative dose and monitor your cat’s appetite, breathing, activity level, weight
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Keep a habit log (e.g. respiratory rate at rest, activity level)
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Bring all supplements to vet visits, so your vet is aware of everything your cat is taking
Supporting a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle for Your Cat
Supplements are just one piece of the puzzle. The following daily habits help support long-term heart health:
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High-quality diet with balanced protein and nutrients
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Weight management — avoid obesity, maintain lean muscle
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Regular play and moderate exercise (without overexertion)
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Stress reduction and environmental stability
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Routine veterinary checkups, especially as your cat ages
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Prompt investigation if you notice changes (breathing, activity, appetite)
