Cat Hypertension: High Blood Pressure in Cats

Systemic hypertension is a serious and often underdiagnosed condition in cats, frequently causing sudden blindness and other organ damage before owners realize their pet is ill.

Key Facts

An estimated 20-65% of cats with kidney disease develop secondary hypertension
Hyperthyroidism is another major cause of high blood pressure in cats
Cats are notorious for hiding illness, so hypertension often goes undetected until an acute crisis
Sudden onset blindness due to retinal detachment is often the first recognized sign
Blood pressure in cats is measured with a Doppler or oscillometric device at the vet
Normal systolic blood pressure in cats is below 160 mmHg; above 180 is considered hypertensive crisis
Treatment typically involves amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker that is effective in most cats

Welfare Considerations

Hypertension causes silent, progressive organ damage in cats - damaging kidneys, heart, brain, and eyes before any outward signs appear. The sudden blindness caused by retinal detachment is particularly distressing; affected cats become disoriented and fearful overnight. Pain and disorientation accompany the neurological effects of severely elevated blood pressure. Because cats mask illness so effectively, many suffer for months before diagnosis. Regular blood pressure monitoring in cats over 7 years old, especially those with kidney disease or hyperthyroidism, is essential to prevent this suffering.

What You Can Do

Schedule blood pressure checks for cats over 7 years old at each annual wellness visit
If your cat has kidney disease or hyperthyroidism, request blood pressure monitoring
Ensure prescribed antihypertensive medications are given consistently as directed
Watch for sudden behavioral changes or signs of disorientation that may indicate a crisis
Support veterinary research into earlier detection methods for feline hypertension