Hypertension, or high blood pressure, isn’t just a human problem — it can affect our dogs and cats too. In pets, it often goes unnoticed because symptoms can be subtle, but if left untreated, it can damage vital organs like the eyes, kidneys, heart, and brain.
What Is Hypertension?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. When this pressure stays too high, it’s called hypertension.
In pets, normal blood pressure is similar to humans — around 120–130 mmHg. When it goes above 160 mmHg, it becomes a concern.
Which Pets Are at Risk?
- Senior pets (usually over 7 years old)
- Pets with kidney disease (CKD)
- Pets with Cushing’s disease or hyperthyroidism (in cats)
- Some pets may have idiopathic hypertension (no clear cause)
Signs of High Blood Pressure in Pets
Hypertension is often called a “silent disease” because early signs can be hard to notice. But as it progresses, you may see:
- Sudden blindness (especially in cats)
- Disorientation or seizures
- Nosebleeds
- Heart murmur or irregular heartbeat
- Increased thirst and urination (if related to kidney issues)
Sometimes, high blood pressure is only discovered during a check-up or after an eye exam.
How Do Vets Check Blood Pressure?
Just like in people, we use a blood pressure cuff and a Doppler or Oscillo metric machine — usually placed on a paw or tail. It’s non-painful, but your pet needs to be calm for an accurate reading.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause, but commonly includes:
- Blood pressure medication (e.g., amlodipine for cats, enalapril for dogs)
- Managing underlying conditions (like kidney disease or hormone imbalances)
- Dietary changes (low-sodium diet if needed)
- Regular monitoring (every 1–3 months once diagnosed)
Why Treating Hypertension Matters
If not controlled, high blood pressure can lead to:
- Permanent blindness
- Kidney failure
- Strokes or seizures
- Heart enlargement or failure
Hypertension often hides in the background until serious damage is done — that’s why routine screening is important, especially in older pets or those with chronic illnesses. The earlier we detect it, the better we can protect your pet’s organs and quality of life.