Feline Hyperaldosteronism: Emerging Diagnosis and Welfare

Primary hyperaldosteronism caused by adrenal tumors is an underdiagnosed cause of hypertension and muscle weakness in older cats.

Key Facts

Primary hyperaldosteronism is caused by an adrenal gland tumor secreting excess aldosterone
The condition causes severe hypokalemia leading to weakness, difficulty walking, and neck ventroflexion
Secondary hypertension from hyperaldosteronism can cause acute blindness from retinal detachment
The condition is increasingly recognized and may account for a significant proportion of feline hypertension cases
Surgical adrenalectomy can be curative when performed at specialist centers

Welfare Considerations

Cats with undiagnosed hyperaldosteronism experience profound muscle weakness that severely compromises their ability to perform normal behaviors including jumping, grooming, and play. The weakness from hypokalemia can progress to respiratory muscle involvement. Acute blindness from hypertensive retinal detachment is a welfare emergency that causes significant distress. Earlier diagnosis through routine blood pressure monitoring and electrolyte testing in older hypertensive cats can prevent much unnecessary suffering. Many cats respond dramatically to appropriate medical or surgical treatment.

What You Can Do

Request blood pressure measurement and electrolyte screening for older cats showing weakness
Ask your vet about hyperaldosteronism if your cat has persistent hypertension despite treatment
Seek specialist referral for endocrine investigation of cats with unexplained weakness
Support feline endocrinology research that improves diagnostic criteria for adrenal diseases