Help, I'm really worried about my cat. Whenever we go to the vet for a routine check-up, her blood pressure readings come back high, and the vet seems concerned. But here's the thing—at home, she seems perfectly fine. She's playful, eats well, and doesn't show any obvious signs of distress. I'm torn because I wonder if it's just the stress of being at the clinic that's causing these spikes. I've read stress can affect blood pressure, but I don't know how common that really is with cats. Is there a reliable way to monitor her blood pressure at home, or should I trust that the vet knows best? I just don't want to overlook something serious when she seems so healthy otherwise. Any advice or similar experiences would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for reaching out with your question! Monitoring a cat's blood pressure can indeed be tricky, as they often experience stress-induced spikes during veterinary visits, a condition known as “white coat hypertension.”
There are a few signs at home that might suggest your kitty has high blood pressure consistently. Watch for symptoms like increased thirst, changes in vision or pupils, restlessness, behavioral changes, nosebleeds, seizures, or disorientation. These can all indicate that blood pressure is a concern and not just a temporary stress response.
At home, ensure your cat has a calm, stable environment to minimize stress. Provide plenty of water and a balanced diet. Regular play and enrichment can also help keep your kitty's mind peaceful.
If you notice any abrupt changes in behavior or physical symptoms like those mentioned, it's crucial to reach out to a veterinarian. These could be signs of an underlying issue such as kidney disease or hyperthyroidism, which can cause hypertension.
For accurate readings of your cat’s blood pressure outside the stress of a vet clinic, consider scheduling a video consult with us. This way, we can guide you through at-home observation techniques and discuss steps forward to ensure your feline friend remains in good health.
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