5 Symptoms of Untreated Hypertension in Cats

Hypertension, or high blood pressure (BP), is a condition that can affect any cat, regardless of age. However, age does increase the risk of hypertension in cats. Approximately 13% of healthy cats ages 9 or older are affected by hypertension. The risk significantly increases to as high as 87% in cats with concurrent diseases, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD) or hyperthyroidism.¹  Monitoring high blood pressure in cats is crucial, particularly in these higher-risk cases.

A normal blood pressure reading for a cat is a systolic BP of 150 mmHg or less. Above, that value, there is a risk that the cat’s high blood pressure can cause organ damage. This organ damage can cause blindness and other health conditions in your cat.

Research shows that regular blood pressure checks in cats can reduce the morbidity associated with hypertension.¹ Early detection is key, as the symptoms of hypertension in cats can be subtle or even absent until the condition becomes severe. Below are five common symptoms of untreated hypertension in cats that veterinary professionals and pet owners should be aware of.

Hypertension Symptoms in Cats

1. Vision Problems
   Untreated hypertension can damage the blood vessels in a cat’s eyes, leading to vision issues. Signs may include dilated pupils, bloodshot eyes, or even sudden blindness. If your cat shows any of these symptoms, prompt veterinary attention is necessary.
   
   
2. Neurological Issues
   Cats with untreated hypertension may develop neurological symptoms such as disorientation, confusion, head pressing, seizures, or an unsteady gait. These symptoms indicate a need for immediate veterinary care.
   
   
3. Behavioral Changes
   Hypertension can cause significant changes in a cat's behavior. Cats may become more irritable, aggressive, or withdrawn. They may also have difficulty sleeping or appear restless, which can be early signs of high blood pressure.
   
   
4. Increased Thirst and Urination
   Hypertension can impact kidney function, leading to increased thirst and urination. If you notice your cat drinking more water or making frequent trips to the litter box, this could be a sign of underlying high blood pressure.
   
   
5. Weight Loss
   Despite maintaining a healthy appetite, cats with untreated hypertension may lose weight. This can result from the strain that hypertension places on various organs, making early intervention critical.
   
   

Remember, hypertension itself often does not present obvious symptoms, making routine blood pressure monitoring essential. A veterinarian can detect high blood pressure during a check-up, which can prevent complications down the road.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, consulting with a veterinarian as soon as possible is essential. Early diagnosis and treatment of hypertension can help prevent more severe health issues and improve your cat's overall well-being.

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Reference:

Conroy M, Chang YM, Brodbelt D, Elliott J. Survival after diagnosis of hypertension in cats attending primary care practice in the Unitelld Kingdom. J Vet Intern Med. 2018 Nov;32(6):1846-1855. doi: 10.1111/jvim.15307. Epub 2018 Oct 13. PMID: 30315661; PMCID: PMC6271307.