Hypertension in cats: decision making for treatment

Background : Systemic hypertension (SH) – high blood pressure – in cats is recognised with increasing frequency in veterinary clinics, especially in older cats. SH is defined as a persistent, pathological increase in systolic blood pressure (160 mmHg or higher). Diagnosis can be complicated by transient increases in blood pressure due to anxiety/excitement – a phenomenon previously referred to as the ‘white coat effect’ but more recently termed ‘situational hypertension’. Diagnosis of SH requires demonstrating persistence of high readings on two separate occasions, or clear evidence of hypertensive target organ damage in combination with a single high blood pressure reading. Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, treatment is usually straightforward, with once daily authorised preparations available. Diagnosis and management of underlying diseases is recommended where possible in cats diagnosed with SH since in most cases the hypertension is secondary. Aim of the article : This article informs clinicians about the indications for blood pressure assessment, how to collect and interpret blood pressure readings, and how to manage systemic hypertension once diagnosed in cats.