High Blood Pressure in Pets-Hypertension a Hidden Problem

By
Donald H DeForge, VMD
SilverSandsVeterinary.com
17 Seemans Lane
Milford, CT 06460
203-877-3221
DonDeForge100@gmail.com







AWR400001-K petMAP Manual
High Blood Pressure in Pets
Hypertension: A Hidden Problem


 Can the companion pets we love develop High Blood Pressure?  The answer is YES!

A ISOLATED elevated blood pressure is not a reason to begin anti-hypertensive drugs.

A DECISION on the USAGE of anti-hypertensive medicine is based on


  • Multiple High Blood Pressure Readings
  • Differentiating Primary from Secondary Hypertension
  • Diagnostic Testing
  • Consultation with your Local Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and/or an Internal Medicine doctor
Hypertension in Cats:

  • Occurs most frequently in older cats
  • Many times coupled to kidney problems or hyperthyroidism

What are the two numbers that make up a blood pressure reading?

  • Systolic or the first number is the larger of the two numbers and measures the force of blood from the heart into the arteries
  • Diastolic or the smaller number measures the force as the heart relaxes~allowing blood to flow back to the heart
  • In our pet companions, the Diastolic pressure is not as reliable as Systolic~~~so we generally rely on the Systolic measurement 

What are the dangers of long term Hypertension?-i.e. High Blood Pressure in pets:

  • Hypertension can affect the heart, kidneys, eyes, and the nervous system
  • Primary Hypertension means the high blood pressure is the disease itself
  • Secondary Hypertension means some other medical condition[s] are contributing to high blood pressure
Signs noted with High Blood Pressure-Hypertension in Cats

  • Disorientation
  • Dilated Pupils
  • Acute Blindness
  • Weakness in the legs
  • Retinal Detachment
  • Seizures
  • Involuntary rolling of the eyeballs
  • Stroke and Cerebral Vascular Accidents
Normal Systolic Pressure in Dog is 100-150
High Blood Pressure in the dog is greater than 170

Normal Systolic Blood Pressure in the Cat is 100-160
High Blood Pressure in the cat is greater than 180

Remember blood pressure reading is directly related to age, breed, weight, excitement, nervousness, and other medical problems. Consult your local doctor of veterinary medicine if you have a middle aged or older pet............. for a blood pressure check up............... at your next physical exam.

Questions: E-Mail DonDeForge100@gmail.com

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