Feline blood pressure measurement: when is it needed?

Abstract

Systemic hypertension is a common disorder, primarily affecting older cats. Most cases are secondary to underlying medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease. If left untreated, systemic hypertension has the potential to cause serious damage to certain target organs and can be fatal. Target organs include the nervous system, cardiovascular system, eyes and kidneys. Target organ damage to the eyes is often pathognomonic and is detected on ophthalmological examination in up to 80% of cats with systemic hypertension. Blood pressure measurement is essential in confirming a diagnosis and should be prioritised in cats showing evidence of target organ damage. Blood pressure screening of apparently healthy older cats is justified, since the risk of hypertension increases with age. Systemic hypertension is diagnosed in cats with persistent elevation in their systolic blood pressure of 160 mmHg or higher. Stress and anxiety can cause a transient increase in systolic blood pressure so measurements should be collected in a manner that is as calm and ‘cat friendly’ as possible. In the presence of confirmed target organ damage, a single high systolic blood pressure reading confirms systemic hypertension. Where no target organ damage is detectable, evidence of elevated systolic blood pressure on two or more occasions is needed to confirm the diagnosis.