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Understanding HCM starts with the right veterinary conversation.

This page is educational only. Diagnosis, treatment decisions, and medication use must be guided by a licensed veterinarian. Use this section to prepare for an informed conversation about your cat.

What is feline HCM?

HCM, or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, is a heart muscle disease where parts of the heart wall become thicker than normal. Some cats show no outward signs in the early stages — this is called subclinical HCM, and it is the stage Sirofel™ is intended for. Other conditions — such as high blood pressure or thyroid disease — can also cause heart wall thickening, and your veterinarian will help distinguish between them.

Why early detection matters.

  • HCM can be silent in its early stages

  • A heart murmur may or may not be present

  • Echocardiography (a heart ultrasound) is the main diagnostic tool

  • Regular check-ups support earlier recognition

  • Follow-up visits help track changes over time

  • Some signs require emergency care — see the Treatment Journey page

About Sirofel™.

Sirofel™ is a sirolimus delayed-release tablet brand for veterinarian-directed care of cats with subclinical HCM. It is not a supplement. It cannot be bought directly. Sirofel™ is administered as a weekly tablet, swallowed whole.

If your veterinarian recommends Sirofel™, the decision will be based on a clear diagnosis, baseline bloodwork, and a monitoring plan. The Treatment Journey page explains what to expect step by step.

When Sirofel™ is not the right option.

Sirofel™ is intended for otherwise healthy cats with subclinical HCM. Your veterinarian will not recommend it — or will choose a different approach — if your cat has one of the following:

  • Diabetes mellitus — diabetes affects how the body manages sugar; sirolimus may not be suitable

  • Liver disease — sirolimus is processed by the liver and may raise liver enzymes

  • High blood pressure (hypertension) — needs to be addressed separately

  • Heart failure, past or present — different management is needed

  • A history of blood clots (arterial thromboembolism)

  • Severe outflow tract obstruction or arrhythmias requiring specific therapy

  • Known sensitivity to sirolimus

This is why baseline bloodwork and a full veterinary examination come first.

Conversation Checklist

Questions to ask your veterinarian.

  • Does my cat need an echocardiogram?

  • Does my cat havesubclinicalHCM, or a more advanced stage?

  • Could another condition (blood pressure, thyroid) be causing thickening?

  • Has my cat been screened for diabetes and liver disease?

  • Is Sirofel™ appropriate for my cat — and if not, what is?

  • How often will we recheck bloodwork and imaging?

  • What side effects should I watch for at home?

  • What signs require emergency care?

  • How do I give the tablet safely each week?

Print this checklist or bring it on your phone to your next appointment. Your veterinarian can help you understand which questions are most relevant for your cat.

Contact with an expert 

You can message us right now to get more information about the treatment 

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