High blood pressure in aged cats is common and can affect their eyes and vision. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/hypertension
Ocular signs may be the first indication of high blood pressure. These signs can include loss of vision, dilation of pupils, retinal detachment and intraocular hemorrhage. Neurologic symptoms such as disorientation or seizures may also occur.
High blood pressure results in fluid leakage underneath the retina, a thin layer of cells in the back of the eye that is responsible for vision. The retina becomes detached as a result. Lowering of the blood pressure helps reverse this change. When detected early, most patients with high blood pressure will regain partial functional vision. The presence of marked retinal or intraocular hemorrhage or retinal tears decrease the potential for return of vision. In addition, the longer a retina remains detached, the lower the prognosis for return of functional vision.
High blood pressure in aged cats (hypertension) may result from kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, heart disease, hyperaldosteronism, diabetes mellitus, or a combination of these. Kidney disease and hyperthyroidism are the most common causes. Additional work-up can be done by your veterinarian to further help determine the cause.
Blood pressure is measured in cats in a similar way that your blood pressure is checked. Blood pressure is measured by an ultrasound device (doppler) or an oscillometric device attached to a cuff. A small cuff appropriate to the size of the cat is placed around the limb. Normal systolic blood pressure in cats ranges between 120-150mmHg, but hypertensive cats can experience blood pressure greater than 200mmHg.
Treatment for high blood pressure in aged cats is dictated by cause but often includes medications.
If you think your cat has eye changes compatible with high blood pressure, call us at Animal Eye Doctors for an appointment. Make An Appointment
