Why Your Pet’s Blood Pressure Matters More Than You Think

When you think of blood pressure, you probably associate it with your own health—perhaps getting it checked at the doctor’s office or managing it with diet and exercise. But did you know that blood pressure plays a vital role in your pet’s health too? Whether you have a dog, cat, or another furry companion, monitoring blood pressure can help detect early signs of illness and even save your pet’s life.

In this post, we’ll explore what pet blood pressure is, why it matters, how it’s measured, and when you should be concerned.

What Is Blood Pressure in Pets?

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. Just like in humans, pets have a “normal” blood pressure range. It can be affected by a variety of factors including stress, underlying disease, and even aging.

In general, the normal systolic blood pressure (the top number) in cats and dogs is between 110 and 160 mmHg. Anything consistently above that may be a sign of hypertension (high blood pressure), and anything below that range may be a sign of hypotension (low blood pressure).

Why Blood Pressure Matters in Pets

Blood pressure is more than just a number—it’s a window into your pet’s overall health. High blood pressure can be a silent threat that damages internal organs without obvious symptoms until it’s advanced, while low blood pressure can be a sign of serious acute medical issues. Here’s why monitoring it is important:

1. Early Disease Detection

Hypertension can be an early warning sign of several underlying conditions such as:

• Kidney disease

• Heart disease

• Diabetes (in some animals)

• Hyperthyroidism (especially in cats)

• Cushing’s disease (common in dogs)

  
  

By checking your pet’s blood pressure regularly, your veterinarian may detect issues before they become serious.

2. Preventing Organ Damage

Prolonged high blood pressure can damage vital organs like:

• Eyes – causing blindness from retinal detachment

• Kidneys – accelerating kidney failure

• Heart – leading to an enlarged heart or heart failure

• Brain – increasing the risk of seizures or stroke-like symptoms

Many of these problems can be prevented or managed if caught early through routine blood pressure monitoring.

3. Checking for Acute Conditions

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, can be a valuable diagnostic indicator in veterinary medicine. When blood pressure drops below normal levels, it may indicate:

• Shock

• Internal bleeding

• Severe infection (sepsis)

• Heart disease

• Complications from sedation/anesthesia. 

All of these are serious medical conditions that require immediate medical attention.

4. Safe Anesthesia and Heavy Sedation

Blood pressure monitoring is crucial during anesthesia and heavy sedation. Pets with abnormal blood pressure are at higher risk during procedures. Vets will often check blood pressure before and during procedures to ensure safe outcomes.

How Is Blood Pressure Measured in Pets?

Measuring a pet’s blood pressure is non-invasive and painless. A small cuff is placed on your pet’s leg or tail, similar to how it's done with humans. It’s often done using Doppler ultrasound or oscillometric devices.

Signs Your Pet Might Have Abnormal Blood Pressure

Because hypertension is often silent, there may be no symptoms until damage is done. However, here are some warning signs to watch for:

• Sudden blindness or dilated pupils

• Seizures or disorientation

• Nosebleeds (especially in cats)

• Increased drinking or urination

• Lethargy or weakness

• Changes in behavior

Hypotension is typically an indicator of serious medical issues. In this case, your pet will often also show other concerning symptoms, such as:

• Weakness 

• Lethargy 

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Cold extremities

• Pale gums

If you notice any of these concerning signs, it’s important to see a veterinarian promptly.

Which Pets Are Most at Risk?

Certain pets are more likely to develop chronic high blood pressure:

• Senior pets (age 7 and up)

• Pets with kidney disease, heart disease, or thyroid issues

• Cats, especially those over 10 years old

• Dogs with Cushing’s disease

• Pets on long-term steroid medication

If your pet falls into any of these categories, your vet may recommend regular blood pressure screenings as part of routine wellness visits.

Low blood pressure typically is a result of serious medical conditions caused by acute injury or infection.

Have Questions About Your Pet’s Blood Pressure or Health? 

Schedule an appointment with your primary care veterinarian for a wellness check or visit our Burbank or Koreatown location if your pet has urgent symptoms. 

Call us at (818) 296-0700 in Burbank or (323) 302-5200 in Koreatown to speak with a member of our care team. Your furry loved one is counting on you!