Cats are independent and often solitary by nature, traits that make disease detection challenging. For the 10 to 15 percent of cats affected by heart disease, signs might not be noticed until it’s too late to treat.

Researchers have developed a questionnaire for cat families that may help open the door to feline feelings. Called the Cats Assessment Tool for Cardiac Health, the questionnaire is similar to one developed seven years ago for dogs. Both surveys were inspired by studies correlating the quality of life with survival rates of people with heart disease.

After administering the survey to more than 350 kitty caretakers, the researchers have found that results fit closely with already established classifications of feline heart failure. The aim is to form a whole disease picture so that compromised kitties get the help they need.