Mastering Management: Evaluating hypertension

Most veterinary hospitals recommend geriatric pets receive once (or twice) yearly evaluations including an examination and blood testing. According to Dr. Bonnie Lefbom of Chesapeake Veterinary Cardiology Associates in Vienna, Va. that evaluation should also include a blood pressure measurement.

Dr. Lefbom says, "The public is quite used to having their own blood pressure evaluated and will feel the same testing is appropriate for their pets. If you provide a good explanation, most owners will approve the test."

The primary reason to check for hypertension is to prevent the damaging effects of leaving the disease untreated. In cats, the disease can be primary or secondary to such common ailments as hyperthyroidism, renal disease, obesity and diabetes. If left untreated, hypertension can lead to acute blindness secondary to detached retina. In dogs, diseases such as hypothyroidism, renal disease, neurological disease, Cushing's disease or obesity can cause high blood pressure.

The most accurate instruments to measure peripheral blood pressure in companion animals are Doppler based. This equipment is readily available and inexpensive.

The technique to measure blood pressure is easy to learn and can be performed by the technical staff. The preferred place to check pressures in cats is the base of the tail, whereas in dogs it is the metatarsal region. An appropriate cuff size must be used to get accurate results.

For further insight into Dr. Lefbom's recommendations regarding blood pressure measurement in dogs and cats, log onto www.vlg.us and click on "VLG in the News".

Dr. Bonnie Lefbom

Tip from:

Dr. Bonnie Lefbom

Chesapeake Veterinary Cardiology Associates

Vienna, Va.