Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) in Dogs
Hypotension in dogs refers to a condition in which the animal’s blood pressure falls below the normal range, which can lead to inadequate blood flow to vital organs.
BASICS/CAUSES:
Blood pressure is an essential measure of a dog’s health and depends on the amount of blood the heart pumps, as well as the resistance of the blood vessels. Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, can be caused by various factors, either due to physical changes or external influences.
One of the most common causes of hypotension is dehydration, which can occur due to inadequate water intake, increased fluid loss (dehydration) through vomiting or diarrhea, or excessive sweating. Likewise, blood loss, whether through internal bleeding or external injuries, can lead to a significant drop in blood pressure.
Heart problems that impair the heart’s pumping ability, such as heart failure or heart valve defects, can also lead to low blood pressure. In addition, certain medications, especially those used to treat high blood pressure or heart disease, can cause hypotension as a side effect.
Finally, endocrine problems such as adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison’s disease, can negatively affect blood pressure. In this disease, the body does not produce enough steroid hormones, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, including low blood pressure.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
- Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, ARDS (Shock Lung)
- Cholangiocarcinoma (Gallbladder and Bile Duct Cancer)
- Hemolytic Transfusion Reaction, HTR (Blood Transfusion Reaction)
- Hypovolemic Shock (Shock Due to Fluid Loss (Dehydration))
- Infections Caused by Staphylococcus Species (Bacterial Infections Caused by Staphylococci)
- Mastitis (Mammary Gland Inflammation)
- Meningitis
- Retention of Fetal Membranes (Retained Placenta)
- Salmonella Infection (Bacterial Infection with Salmonella)
- Septic Shock (Shock Due to Bacterial Infection)
Typical accompanying symptoms
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Weakness: A dog with hypotension may appear weak or lethargic because the muscles and brain are not getting enough blood flow, leading to a lack of energy and coordination.
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Collapse: In severe cases, a dog may collapse due to insufficient blood flow to the organs, which is an emergency.
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Pale gums: The dog may have pale or whitish gums, a sign of poor circulation and tissue oxygenation.
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Rapid heart rate: The body may try to compensate for the low blood pressure by increasing the heart rate, often leading to a rapid or irregular heartbeat.
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Cool extremities: With hypotension, blood flow to the peripheral parts of the body, such as paws and ears, may be reduced, resulting in a cool temperature in these areas.
When to visit the vet?
A veterinary visit is urgently needed if a dog shows signs of hypotension, especially if these symptoms occur suddenly or worsen rapidly. Since hypotension can be a symptom of an underlying serious condition, it is crucial to identify and treat the cause quickly.
An immediate veterinary visit is necessary if the dog collapses, shows signs of confusion, or has noticeably pale gums. These symptoms may indicate a life-threatening situation that requires immediate medical intervention.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
It can be difficult for the pet owner to diagnose hypotension alone, as the symptoms are often non-specific and can indicate various health problems. However, regularly checking the dog’s general condition, including observing changes in behavior, appetite, and energy levels, can provide clues that warrant closer examination.
The veterinarian will likely perform a thorough clinical examination, including measuring blood pressure with a special device designed for animals. Further tests such as blood tests, X-rays, or ultrasound may be necessary to determine the cause of the hypotension and initiate appropriate treatment.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
Until a veterinarian can be consulted, the dog should be kept calm and warm to prevent stress and further strain on the circulation. It is important to give the dog access to fresh water to prevent or alleviate possible dehydration.
Avoid giving the dog any medication without veterinary instructions, as this could worsen the situation. Instead, the focus should be on monitoring the dog and ensuring that it is not exposed to further unnecessary stress or stressors until professional help is available.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.