Feline hypertension is a condition in which your cat has high blood pressure. Unlike us, stress doesn’t cause hypertension in cats. Conditions such as kidney failure, heart diseases, and feline hyperthyroidism are usually the cause.

Symptoms

The diseases that cause high blood pressure in cats can exist for years before you notice anything. Cats that suddenly go blind are normally suffering from hypertension. Other common symptoms include increased heart rate, weight loss, and excessive urinating and drinking. Your cat’s pupils will also be dilated and won’t respond to changes in light. Some cats also have blood in their urine.

Diagnosis

As mentioned earlier, kidney diseases, heart diseases, or hyperthyroidism usually cause feline hypertension. Therefore, your veterinarian will check your cat’s blood pressure frequently if he has been diagnosed with one of these conditions. A diagnosis can be made based on medical history and symptoms. In some cases, the veterinarian will noticed an enlarged thyroid gland or abnormal kidneys.

Treatment

Treatment of feline hypertension focuses on resolving the problem that is causing your cat’s high blood pressure. If the kidneys are the problem, then your cat may be placed on a low sodium diet. Sometimes, medications are prescribed to lower the blood pressure. These include beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics.