Hypertension Kills Cats!

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a very real problem in our pets, especially cats.   Feline hypertension can be an early warning sign of many problems including hyperthyroidism (elevated thyroid),  cardiomyopathy (heart disease).   Hypertension is also responsible for conditions such as detached retinas,  stroke, and kidney damage.    Cats do not usually show any signs, as hypertension is often a silent, but deadly disease.  

In an effort to call attention to this problem, this November,  we are offering free blood pressure screening on Wednesdays   (by appointment only).   Please call the front desk to schedule your cat's blood pressure appointment today! 

**Blood pressure in animals is measured using a doppler type machine that uses a small sensor to read the pulse on the inside of the front or rear leg.  A cuff is placed higher on the limb and is used much like the cuff on human blood pressure systems.  The machine has an amplifier that will allow the technician to hear the pulse and determine the blood pressure reading as the cuff is released.   Most cats tolerate this very well, but very aggressive cats are not good candidates/we may note be able to obtain accurate readings.