Hypertension in cats
Also known as High blood pressure in cats.
High blood pressure in cats almost always comes with another disease, especially kidney or thyroid disease. Its most visible damage is sudden blindness from retinal detachment.
If your cat suddenly bumps into things or has huge pupils, see the vet the same day.
- System
- Heart and circulation
- Is it urgent?
- Not usually
- Spreads to other cats
- No
- Spreads to people
- No
- Typical cost in Spain
- Blood pressure check, €20–50; medication, €10–25 a month.
Symptoms
- Sudden blindness, with very dilated pupils
- Blood inside the eye
- Disorientation or seizures
- Often no signs at all
Causes
Chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, hyperaldosteronism and, less often, no known cause.
How it is diagnosed
Blood pressure measurement with Doppler in a calm setting, an eye fundus examination and blood tests to find the cause.
Treatment
Lifelong blood pressure medication and treatment of the underlying disease.
No doses, on purpose: any medicine must be prescribed by your vet for your cat.
Prognosis
Good if it is controlled. A detached retina can reattach if treated within a few days.
Prevention
Measure blood pressure at least once a year from 7–9 years of age, and more often with kidney or thyroid disease.
Frequently asked questions
What causes hypertension?
Chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, hyperaldosteronism and, less often, no known cause.
Can hypertension be cured?
Good if it is controlled. A detached retina can reattach if treated within a few days. Lifelong blood pressure medication and treatment of the underlying disease.
How much does it cost to treat hypertension?
As a guide for Spain in 2026: Blood pressure check, €20–50; medication, €10–25 a month. Prices vary a lot between clinics and cities, and out-of-hours emergencies cost more.
How can hypertension be prevented?
Measure blood pressure at least once a year from 7–9 years of age, and more often with kidney or thyroid disease.
More in heart and circulation
Educational content from Michipedia. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a vet: if you have any doubt about your cat's health, ask. Costs are a guide for Spain in 2026.