Hyperaldosteronism (Conn syndrome) is an underdiagnosed endocrine condition in cats causing hypertension, weakness, and kidney damage.
Hyperaldosteronism in cats causes multiple simultaneous welfare impacts that interact to create severe disability. The muscle weakness from potassium depletion leaves affected cats unable to hold their head up (cervical ventroflexion), unable to jump, and at risk of falling injury. Hypertension causes acute welfare emergencies through retinal detachment and sudden blindness, which is distressing for cats that rely heavily on vision. The diagnostic pathway is challenging since symptoms can mimic other senior cat conditions including CKD and hyperthyroidism, leading to delayed diagnosis while the animal continues suffering. Once diagnosed and appropriately treated with potassium supplementation and either surgery or spironolactone, the welfare improvement can be dramatic with muscle strength returning and blood pressure normalizing. The condition is likely underdiagnosed in cats presenting with hypertension and should be investigated whenever standard treatments fail to control blood pressure.