Hypertension is common in senior cats, often secondary to kidney disease or hyperthyroidism, and can cause sudden blindness, neurological signs, and significant suffering if undetected.
Hypertension is often called a "silent killer" in cats because the clinical signs can appear suddenly and severely. A cat who was apparently healthy can go blind overnight from retinal detachment caused by uncontrolled blood pressure. While blindness is not always immediately apparent in cats — who adapt well to familiar environments — it represents a significant welfare impact. Treatment with amlodipine is effective, well-tolerated, and can prevent further damage. Blood pressure screening at every senior wellness visit is one of the highest-value preventive welfare interventions available.