petMAP PETMAP+ II - Blood Pressure Values in Cats and Dogs

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Blood Pressure Values in Cats and Dogs
Blood pressure (BP) is most accurately measured directly using an intra-arterial catheter. Knowing an
animal's BP is often required for diagnosis and treatment. However, since intra-arterial pressures are
often impossible or impractical to measure, a variety of indirect measurement devices (Doppler and
oscillometric) have been developed to permit estimation of an animal's BP. It is important to note that
the different methods and different brands of indirect BP devices will likely produce different BP values
in the same animal, as each estimates blood pressure in a somewhat different way. Further, all indirect
methods are dependent on the state of the animal and, to some extent, the experience and skill of the
user.
petMAPs have been designed to better correlate with intra-arterial pressure readings through
optimizations for species and cuff site. The result of this better correlation with intra-arterial readings is
that petMAP’s readings will almost always be 10-20% higher than Doppler or other oscillometric
devices. If correlation of petMAP BP readings with other BP devices (other than direct intra-arterial
readings) is desired by the user, petMAP should be used in the non-optimized mode.
"Normal” BP in companion animals varies with the species, age of the animal, method used for BP
determination, and the emotional state of the animal as a result of animal handling and other
circumstances. "Normal” systolic values can range from 110 to 160 mmHg and most diastolic values
range from 55 to 100 mmHg, if the animal is undisturbed and at rest. Normal BP is different for cats and
dogs and can also vary by breed within species.
Hypertension is generally characterized as pressure >170/110 mmHg in relaxed animals; hypotension is
pressure <90/50 mmHg in the awake animal. However, much of the BP data that has been used to
establish these ranges has been measured with indirect devices and, as previously mentioned, most of
these devices (Doppler and oscillometric) underestimate the intra-arterial systolic pressure by 10-20%.
The study of hypertension and its treatment is an evolving subject in veterinary medicine. It is
suggested that veterinarians refer to the literature, including the ACVIM Consensus Statements,
published on this topic.