High Blood Pressure in Cats-Signs, Causes & Why Routine Screening Matters

  As a human, you have probably had your blood pressure taken many times. It's one of the most important measurements in human medicine, after all. And if you have particularly high blood pressure, or hypertension, your doctor will likely want to treat it. But did you know that cats can develop high blood pressure, too?

  While the causes aren't quite the same in cats as they are in humans (odds are your cat doesn't smoke, eat fast food, or worry about bills), treating high blood pressure is just as important to your cat's long-term health.

 

 

What Does High Blood Pressure Do to Cats?

  Over time, high blood pressure can put extra stress on blood vessels, causing them to become damaged and, in some cases, allowing fluid or blood to leak into surrounding tissues. This can be especially concerning when it affects the small, delicate blood vessels of the eyes, kidneys, brain, and heart.

  Clinical signs can be very subtle, even to the most observant cat owners. One of the most concerning signs is a sudden change in vision. Contact your veterinarian promptly if your cat suddenly seems disoriented, is bumping into things, or appears unable to see.

 

How Is Blood Pressure Measured in Cats?

  A cat's blood pressure is measured using a cuff and specialized veterinary equipment. The process is non-invasive, but there is one challenge: most cats find a veterinary visit stressful, and stress can temporarily increase blood pressure.

  Veterinary teams are aware of this and may take several readings, give your cat time to settle in, or use other techniques to help obtain the most accurate measurement possible.

 

What Causes High Blood Pressure in Cats?

  High blood pressure can occur on its own, but it is also commonly associated with certain underlying conditions, including hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and kidney disease.

  Because these conditions are more common in older cats, your veterinarian may recommend adding blood pressure screening to your cat's routine senior wellness care, even if you aren't noticing any symptoms at home.

  Regular screening can be particularly valuable because cats can have significant changes in their health before they show obvious signs of illness.
 

Can High Blood Pressure in Cats Be Treated?

  Yes. Many cases of feline hypertension can be successfully managed with medication. If an underlying condition is contributing to high blood pressure, treating that condition may also be an important part of your cat's care.

  The earlier hypertension is identified and managed, the better the opportunity to help protect your cat's eyes and other vital organs from long-term damage.

  If you have an older cat or have noticed changes in your cat's vision, behavior, or overall health, talk with your veterinary team about whether blood pressure screening may be appropriate.

  At Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center, we're here to help you keep your cat healthy through every stage of life, including routine senior wellness care and screening for conditions that may not show obvious signs at home.