How to Effectively Identify and Treat Feline Hypertension Symptoms

Feline hypertension, or feline high blood pressure, is often a silent condition that can have devastating effects if left untreated. Early detection can prevent serious complications, such as organ damage or blindness. However, the condition’s subtle signs make identifying it a challenge for veterinarians. By knowing feline hypertension symptoms, asking the right questions, and conducting thorough exams, you can proactively recognize, diagnose, and treat feline hypertension—improving patients’ quality of life and giving peace of mind to pet parents.

What is Feline Hypertension?

Feline hypertension occurs when a cat's blood pressure consistently exceeds normal levels, sometimes due to underlying health issues. The condition can go unnoticed until it reaches a critical stage, so regular monitoring and early intervention is important.

Without treatment, feline hypertension can lead to significant complications, including damage to major organs. The eyes are particularly vulnerable, given that unchecked hypertension can result in blindness or retinal detachment. The kidneys, heart, and brain are also at risk, as prolonged high blood pressure can impair their function and lead to life-threatening conditions.

Hypertension in cats is often classified into two types: primary hypertension, which occurs without an identifiable cause, and secondary hypertension, which results from other medical issues. Secondary hypertension is far more common, responsible for 80% of all cases.

The Importance of Early Detection and Treatment

The benefits of early detection in feline hypertension cannot be overstated. Cats with hypertension are usually asymptomatic in the early stages, making routine blood pressure checks essential during veterinary visits. Identifying hypertension early can help prevent irreversible damage.

One of the best tools for detecting feline hypertension is a doppler or oscillometric blood pressure device. When using these devices, ensure the cat is as calm and comfortable as possible since stress can temporarily elevate blood pressure. Take multiple readings during each visit, and consider repeat measurements over several visits before confirming a diagnosis. A high systolic blood pressure—or the top number of the reading—of more than 150-160 mm HG could indicate hypertension.

Along with blood pressure screening, it’s a good idea to evaluate cats for any underlying conditions. As mentioned before, hypertension is often a secondary condition—so checking for other issues is a necessary part of the diagnostic process. Educating pet parents about the value of these tests helps ensure compliance and supports long-term treatment success.

Exploring Feline Hypertension Symptoms

The stage of the condition and the organs affected play a big role in which feline hypertension symptoms might present. Often, vision problems are the first noticeable symptoms. Pet parents may observe dilated pupils, blood in the eyes, their cat having difficulty navigating their surroundings, or even sudden blindness. These issues require immediate veterinary attention to prevent permanent vision loss. Other feline hypertension symptoms could include blood in the urine or the nose.

In more advanced stages, these feline hypertension symptoms may be linked to organ damage:

• Brain Damage: Neurological symptoms such as seizures, disorientation, loss of balance, or depression.
• Kidney Damage: Frequent urination, increased thirst, vomiting, lethargy, or decreased appetite.
• Heart Disease: Rapid or shallow breathing, abnormal heart murmurs, or other cardiac issues.

Educating pet parents about these symptoms and encouraging regular check-ups can significantly improve outcomes by ensuring timely intervention.

Understanding the Causes of Feline Hypertension

Feline high blood pressure has several potential causes. Understanding these risk factors can help you diagnose and treat the condition more effectively. They include:

• Underlying Conditions: Chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, Cushing’s disease, diabetes mellitus, hyperaldosteronism, and pheochromocytoma can contribute to secondary hypertension.
• Medications: Certain drugs, such as steroids and phenylpropanolamine, may elevate blood pressure as a side effect.
• Age: Older cats—particularly those 10 years of age or older—are at greater risk of developing hypertension and should be screened regularly.

In rare cases, no clear cause can be identified. Regardless, you should consider these factors along with any feline hypertension symptoms to make a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Effective Feline Hypertension Treatment Options

Medication is the cornerstone of managing feline high blood pressure, with choices tailored to each cat's specific needs. At Mixlab, we provide compounded medications designed to make administration easy and effective for pet parents, especially when it comes to cats which are notoriously difficult to medicate. We offer a wide array of customization options to align with your personalized treatment plans and prescriptions.

Amlodipine

Amlodipine is a commonly prescribed medication for feline hypertension. As a calcium channel blocker, it works by relaxing the blood vessels, reducing resistance, and lowering blood pressure. This medication is particularly effective for managing primary hypertension. Mixlab offers amlodipine in various forms, including capsules, oral liquids, transdermal, and chew treats to suit every cat's preferences.

Telmisartan

Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker that is especially beneficial for hypertensive cats that also have kidney disease. Its renal-protective properties help manage blood pressure while also safeguarding kidney function. Available in capsules, tablets, oral liquids, and chew treats from Mixlab, telmisartan is a versatile choice for addressing complex cases of hypertension.

Benazepril

Benazepril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that works by dilating blood vessels and can reduce proteinuria—or abnormal protein in urine—in cats with kidney disease. This dual benefit makes it an excellent option for cats with both hypertension and kidney issues. Additionally, benazepril can be used to treat heart failure in cats. Mixlab compounds benazepril into capsules, tablets, oral liquids, transdermal, or chew treats.

Enalapril

Similar to benazepril, enalapril is an ACE inhibitor that helps lower blood pressure while reducing strain on the kidneys and heart. It can be useful for managing heart failure in cats, though it should be used with caution and you should closely monitor your patient. Mixlab offers enalapril in tablet, transdermal, oral liquid, and chew treat forms.

Other Ways to Support Feline Patients with Hypertension

While medication is critical, you can share additional tips to help pet parents manage their cat’s hypertension. Some of these supportive measures include:

• Dietary Changes: If appropriate, consider recommending a low-sodium diet to help control blood pressure.
• Stress Reduction: Encourage pet parents to create a calm, quiet environment for their cat, free from stressors that could elevate blood pressure.
• Regular Monitoring: Suggest at-home blood pressure checks for proactive management if needed, along with consistent veterinary visits to assess progress.

The First Choice for Feline Hypertension Medications

Managing feline hypertension requires a unique approach for every patient. At Mixlab, we understand the importance of having access to personalized treatment options. Aside from our branded and generic medications, we also provide a wide range of medications compounded in various dosages, flavors and forms to make it easier for pet parents to treat feline hypertension symptoms​ effectively. Our streamlined prescription process and next-day delivery service ensure that your patients receive their medications without delay. Contact Mixlab to submit your prescriptions. We’ll ensure the same level of care you provide.