Animal Update: Pets And High-Blood Pressure

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)— High-blood pressure or hypertension is a fairly common condition in cats and dogs. Dr. Jennifer Scarlett with the San Francisco SPCA recommends blood pressure is checked at every veterinarian visit.

The causes aren't really the same as in humans and are usually due to a secondary disease process. "Usually kidney disease, heart disease or endocrine or hyperthyroid diseases," are the main culprits for why pets develop this condition according to Scarlett.

The health concerns for pets with high-blood pressure, however, are similar to what humans face. "In cats we see a condition called detached retina commonly associated with uncontrolled high-blood pressure.

Since this is a secondary condition, pet owners should keep their companions' weight in check and healthy. Early intervention is key to prevention according to Scarlett. For more tips go to sfspca.org.