Cats with high blood pressure should be given Amlodipine.
Amlodipine besylate is a calcium channel blocker.Before giving your cat amlodipine, be sure to tell the vet about any existing medical conditions and make sure it's functioning well.Amlodipine is usually taken once a day.Never stop treatment without first asking the vet, and give your cat its medication according to the vets instructions.Bring your cat to follow-up appointments as the vet recommends, and monitor it for side effects.
Step 1: Have your cat tested for diseases.
Primary hypertension, or high blood pressure that's not caused by another medical condition, is rare in cats, so the vet will likely test for a secondary disorder.hypertension can be related to heart disease, hyperthyroidism, or another underlying condition.If your cat has ever been diagnosed with a medical issue, tell the vet if it takes any other medications.Dilutions can cause blood pressure to become too low or interfere with its effectiveness.
Step 2: Your cat's organs should be checked.
If your cat has ever been diagnosed with any issues with Amlodipine, you should tell your vet.Ask the vet if they recommend tests if you're not sure about its function.It's recommended that the kidneys be monitored to rule out adverse side effects when cats are prescribed amlodipine.If you can't bring your cat in for follow-up care, ask the vet if they recommend an alternative medication.
Step 3: The best way to get the best dose is to speak to the vet.
When a cat's blood pressure is over 200, some vets recommend starting amlodipine treatment at an increased dose.In 2016 a more palatable, chewable form became available.Ask the vet if they can prescribe a chewable form and if there is a difference in cost between it and a tablet medication.If you can't give your cat oral medication, ask the vet about transdermal or injection forms.After the treatment is over, your vet will need to check your cat's blood pressure.
Step 4: The vet told you to give your cat its medicine.
Before you leave the vet's office, make sure you know how to give your cat medication.If you confirm this with your cat's vet, Amlodipine can be given with food.If they recommend giving it with a meal, you can place a pill in a pocket treat or give it a chewable form.Should you feed your cat a pill pocket treat or a full meal?After giving your cat medication, wash your hands.
Step 5: Amlodipine can be administered every 24 hours.
Amlodipine is most often prescribed to be taken once daily.If you can, give your cat its medication at the same time each day.Just be sure to stick to the same time each day, because you can choose the time of day that's best for you and your cat.
Step 6: You don't want to miss a dose or double dose.
Setting a daily alarm and taking a dose with you when you and your cat are away can help prevent a spike in blood pressure.Don't try to catch up by double-dosing if you miss a dose.If your cat's next scheduled dose is soon, give it the medicine as soon as you remember.
Step 7: Don't stop the treatment without the vet's approval.
Before taking your cat off of medication, consult a vet.If you stop treatment, you can cause a life-threatening spike in blood pressure.If your cat vomits after taking its medicine, call the vet.They could recommend stopping treatment and giving an alternative medication.
Step 8: The vet suggests scheduling follow-up visits.
A follow-up visit will most likely be recommended by the vet within a few weeks of the first dose.They will take your cat's blood pressure to make sure the medication works.If your cat has other medical issues, they will test for adverse side effects or verify that secondary treatments are working.
Step 9: Any adverse side effects should be looked for.
Amlodipine can cause side effects that are related to low pressure.If you notice any of the symptoms, contact the vet.
Step 10: If you see severe symptoms, you should seek emergency care.
If your cat vomits after its first dose, you should call the vet.If you observe sudden collapse or weakness, you should immediately contact the vet or your local animal poison control center.If your cat has trouble breathing or moving, it's time to seek emergency care.