Mary Allen
Blood pressure describes the force that the blood exerts on the walls of the arteries, veins, and capillaries. In the case of high blood pressure, the pressure on the vessel walls is too great, so in the worst case, it can lead to a wide variety of organ and nerve damage. Cats can also be affected.
How is High Blood Pressure Measured in Cats?
In order to accurately measure blood pressure and check if it is too high, you need a special measuring device. In the past, so-called mercury manometers were used to measure blood pressure in humans, which is why the unit millimeters of mercury (mmHg) is still common today – both in humans and in animals.
An upper value of 120 to 140 mmHg is considered normal in cats, from 150 the blood pressure is slightly elevated and from 160 moderately elevated. Above a value of 180, the risk of organ damage from high blood pressure is greatly increased.
Possible Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
The symptoms of high blood pressure are very subtle or ambiguous. Possible warning signs include bleeding in the eye and detachment of the retina, which can lead to the cat going blind. Behavioral problems such as excessive meowing, apathy, or seizures can also occur with high blood pressure. If your cat suffers from diabetes, is overweight, has an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism), or has chronic renal insufficiency, you should check your cat’s blood pressure regularly. These diseases can cause high blood pressure. Diabetes, kidney problems, and an overactive thyroid can also be exacerbated by high blood pressure, creating a vicious cycle.
It is, therefore, best to go to the vet if you suspect that your cat might be suffering from high blood pressure. If you have actually found that your blood pressure is too high, it may be worth buying a measuring device yourself so that you can regularly check your kitty’s health at home. The gauges come with a cuff that you wrap around your cat’s tail or front paw. Don’t worry: it won’t hurt your fur nose.
Why High Blood Pressure is Dangerous
Excessively high blood pressure can not only lead to blindness in cats but also aggravate existing organ and metabolic problems. High blood pressure also increases the risk of heart problems or a stroke in cats. It is, therefore, better to have your blood pressure measured more often than not at all so that you and your veterinarian can start antihypertensive treatment in good time.