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May 20, 2003
Treating Feline Hypertension

Primary hypertension in cats may be more common than currently
recognized. High blood pressure can be quite problematic in cats,
because of the associated increased risk for ocular injury or neurologic
complications induced by high blood pressure. Hypertension should be
considered in older cats with acute onset of blindness; retinal edema,
hemorrhage, or detachment; cardiac disease; or neurologic abnormalities.

Cats with hypertension-induced ocular disease should be evaluated for
renal failure, hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, and cardiac
abnormalities. Blood pressure measurements and funduscopic evaluations
should be performed routinely in cats at risk for hypertension
(preexisting renal disease, hyperthyroidism, and more than 10 years of
age). In a study at the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College
of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, amlodipine was shown to
be a safe and effective once-daily antihypertensive agent when
administered to cats with coexistent systemic hypertension and renal
insufficiency, and may improve their prognosis. In a retrospective
study, amlodipine decreased blood pressure in 31 of 32 cats and improved
ocular signs in 18 of 26 cats.

Contact our compounding pharmacy for customized, easy-to-administer
dosage forms for your pets.

Am J Vet Res 2002 Jun;63(6):833-9
J Am Vet Med Assoc 2000 Sep 1;217(5):695-702
J Vet Intern Med 1998 May-Jun;12(3):157-62
J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 1997 May-Jun;33(3):226-34

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