Feline Senior Wellness Exam

Medford Animal is proud to announce the introduction of the Feline Senior Wellness Exam! Included in the exam for every cat 8 years of age and older is a non-invasive blood pressure reading. Hypertension (elevated blood pressure) in cats is just as big of a problem as it in people, and cats are so stoic that the first indication of a problem is usually a catastrophic one (blindness, stroke, damage to the kidneys and/or heart i.e. target organ damage). Our goal as preventative practitioners is to fend off these problems before they develop by identifying elevated readings early and starting medication when appropriate. Also, as elevated blood pressure readings tend to accompany certain diseases (kidney disease, hyperthyroidism), an elevated reading may be the first clue to an underlying condition that requires further investigation and intervention.

Our beautiful Allie and Alexa checking Bello’s (our hospital kitty) blood pressure; Bello is 8 years old and deeply loved at Medford Animal Hospital.

Common questions and answers:
Q: Does blood pressure monitoring hurt my cat?
A: Absolutely not! The equipment used to very similar to that found in human hospitals.
Q: Do you take my cat’s anxiety into account? May cat is very stressed at the vet!
A: Yes, if fact, we employ a variety of environmental practices to minimize stress; we also discard the first several readings as these are the most likely to reflect “White Coat Syndrome”.
Remember, Medford Animal Hospital is Fear Free First!
Q: If you identify hypertension, what are the next steps?
A: If we confirm a repeatedly high blood pressure reading, the next logical step is to evaluate your pet for target organ damage. This often entails performing a fundic (eye) exam and senior blood work with urinalysis (recommended in cats 8 years of age and older annually regardless). Sometimes, even abdominal imaging (ultrasound) is indicated. Concurrently medication to control the blood pressure is initiated and more aggressive blood pressure monitoring implemented.

Here at Medford Animal Hospital, we love to discuss your pet’s preventative health. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns!