Cat Hypertension in cats: causes, symptoms and treatment

Hypertension in cats is a serious illness. In cats, the mean blood pressure value is 124 mmHg for systolic pressure (during heart contraction). High blood pressure is determined by systolic blood pressure greater than 140 mmHg of consistently. Hypertension results from various causes. Often overlooked by their owners, the symptoms of feline hypertension go unnoticed. She was therefore diagnosed late.
Like humans, it then causes many side effects on the health of the cat. Fortunately, this disease detected early can be stabilized thanks to treatments adapted to the feline. This heart disease is very common in cats. According to some studies, one in 6 cats over the age of 7 is affected. And even, 1 in 3, if the cat suffers from another disease. Hence the importance of senior supervision from 7 years old which is done by an annual visit to the veterinarian.

Hypertension in cats is either primary or secondary. So, primary feline hypertension is without a known cause. In 80 to 90% of cases, secondary feline hypertension is due to a concomitant disease. Underlying or known pathologies favor the triggering of hypertension in cats: renal failure, cardiovascular disease, endocrine disorder.

Regarding endocrine disorders, we find in particular thyroid dysfunction, diabetes mellitus and obesity. On the side of cardiovascular diseases, heart failure and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (significant development of the myocardium, the muscle tissue of the heart) are detected.

Ultimately, vets find that the main causes of cat hypertension are kidney failure and hyperthyroidism.

The disease often develops silently with no visible signs, so that the cat appears healthy. Hypertension is then discovered when blood pressure is measured or when serious disorders occur. For this reason, owners should pay attention to the very first symptom, before it causes damage to the body. Note even a minor change in the cat’s routine and discuss it with the vet.

First of all, you must be very vigilant and have your cat regularly monitored if he suffers from an associated disease. Indeed, it presents high risks of developing arterial hypertension.

In addition, untimely meows for no reason have to alert. A cat that rejects its litter box and defecates in unusual places is also a warning sign. Similarly, the observation of an increase in the amount of water drunk by the cat can be indicative of hypertension.

Particularly impressive, nervous system disorders manifest as a movement coordination disorder, disorientation or dizziness.

Some eating disorders may also occur, such as vomiting and loss of appetite, which causes the animal to lose weight.

The cat can also be extremely tired, even listless. We sometimes see behavior disorders expressed by hyperactivity or great nervousness.

From a respiratory point of view, shortness of breath and a cough can be heard. Finally, difficult to spot before blindness, we can observe eye disorders: a drop in visual acuity, dilation of the papillae.

Feline hypertension should be taken care of and therefore treated as soon as possible. It is manifested by isolated signs, which only the veterinarian can analyze to establish a diagnosis. This is based on the voltage measurement, quick and painless, using a suitable cuff.

In addition, in some cases, the veterinarian performs a Doppler ultrasound to study the blood flow inside the arteries. These measurements are taken either on one leg or on the tail of the animal. However, the cat in a context of stress can fall victim to the “white coat” syndrome. Therefore the measurement is repeated several times to avoid a false diagnosis.

For stabilize hypertension and thus reduce these side effects, drugs are prescribed by the vet. The treatment of hypertension is based on the daily administration ofantihypertensives suitable for cats. These will eventually be combined with other drugs to treat the underlying disease.

In combination with these specific drugs, a low-salt nutritional diet can be used to lower sodium levels in the body. Indeed, a high sodium level promotes heart disease due to hypertension. All of these measures are intended to keep the feline healthy. To ensure this, regular medical monitoring is necessary.

First of all, a annual check-up at the vet is recommended for a cat over 7 years old. During this visit, the vet will take your senior cat’s blood pressure measurement. Then he will do a fundus exam and a kidney blood test. After this preventive check, he will intervene quickly in case of hypertension.

In the case of an underlying disease, a control visit is recommended, every 3 to 6 months. A sedentary lifestyle, a cat sterilized or prone to overweight require the establishment of a balanced diet quality. Ideally, regular bi-nutrition is recommended. It combines a dry diet (light croquettes) with a wet diet (pâtés or freshness sachets).

Every day, it is also necessary fight against sedentary lifestyle, doing moderate exercise or going for walks. In addition, it can be covered with a preventive natural treatment, based on medicinal plants. Certain herbal remedies strengthen the heart and stimulate blood circulation. Other diuretic plants stimulate the kidneys to eliminate waste. If possible, choose a veterinarian specializing in homeopathy or herbal medicine. He will advise you on food supplements and vitamins that are safe for the cat.

Guarantee of good health, prevention can prevent serious complications from hypertension in cats. It helps keep the animal in good shape for a long time. The annual early screening with your veterinarian allows a simple and sure diagnosis. As a result, you can give your feline the right treatment to reduce their blood pressure. Early detection and treatment greatly increases your cat’s life expectancy.

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