Primary hyperaldosteronism is an increasingly recognized hormonal disease in older cats that causes high blood pressure, muscle weakness, and serious organ damage if left untreated.
Cats with undiagnosed hyperaldosteronism suffer from a progressive decline in muscle function and quality of life. The dramatic neck ventroflexion caused by hypokalemia renders affected cats unable to raise their heads, a deeply debilitating condition. Hypertension-induced retinal detachment can cause sudden blindness, often distressing for both the cat and owner. Because the signs can be subtle in early disease and overlap with other age-related conditions, timely diagnosis requires veterinary awareness and appropriate testing. With correct diagnosis, both surgical and medical management can dramatically improve quality of life, making early detection critically important for welfare outcomes.