The Silent Symptoms of Cat Hypertension

STORY AT-A-GLANCE

• Cats can and do develop hypertension (high blood pressure), but it's most often secondary to another disease such as kidney failure or hyperthyroidism; unchecked hypertension can result in damage to the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes
• Since hypertension doesn't typically cause noticeable symptoms, it's important to take blood pressure readings during veterinary exams, especially for cats over 8 and those with kidney or thyroid disease
• Diagnosing hypertension in cats can be challenging, because it requires accurate blood pressure readings and felines are often very stressed during veterinary exams; an eye test called the ocular fundic exam can potentially help identify high blood pressure early
• Treatment of feline hypertension involves identifying and controlling the underlying disease first; the right diet, appropriate supplementation, and an enriched, stress-free environment can be very beneficial in preserving the health of hypertensive cats