Silent changes in older cats: have you noticed any seemingly small changes as your cat has got older? Things like sleeping a little longer, hesitating before jumping, or simply seeming a little different from their usual selves. Often these changes are part of ageing, but occasionally they can signal something more significant happening beneath the surface. One condition we pay particular attention to in older cats is feline hypertension.
Feline hypertension is high blood pressure. May is Feline Hypertension Awareness Month, a helpful reminder that this common condition often develops quietly.
Cats are great at hiding discomfort, which is why hypertension is often described as a silent illness. Many cats show very few outward signs until it is serious. It can go on to affect organs such as the eyes, kidneys or heart. In fact, around one in five senior cats may be affected, particularly those living with kidney disease or hyperthyroidism.
The encouraging news is that when it’s detected early, hypertension is usually very manageable.
Subtle Signs to Watch For
Because the early signs can be easy to miss, it’s helpful to keep an eye out for small changes such as:
- Sudden changes in vision or bumping into things
- Increased thirst or urination
- Weight loss despite a good appetite
- Restlessness or unusual vocalisation
- Behaviour changes or seeming “not quite themselves”
These signs don’t necessarily mean hypertension — but they are a good reason to have things checked.
Why Senior Health Checks Matter
Blood pressure monitoring becomes increasingly important as cats age, but it’s not the only thing we check. Regular health checks allow us to pick up the small, quiet changes — subtle shifts in weight or muscle tone, new heart murmurs, or early eye changes that may indicate rising blood pressure.
If your cat finds vet visits stressful, there are many ways to make things easier. Quiet appointment times, gentle handling, or sometimes, short-term medication can all help reduce anxiety. This can help give us a more accurate picture of how your cat is really doing.
At Priory Vets we take a collaborative approach, combining what you notice at home with the subtle changes we can pick up during a clinical exam. For owners who value the reassurance of regular check‑ins and predictable budgeting, our Priory Pet Club, with consultations included can make it easier to seek advice early. No more waiting and worrying.
Hypertension may be a silent condition, but with thoughtful monitoring and early treatment, many cats continue to enjoy comfortable, happy senior years. If you’re ever unsure about a change in your cat, a simple health check can often provide reassurance.