According to studies, about one in five cats over nine years of age may be affected by hypertension (high blood pressure). Up to 65% of cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and 27% of cats with hyperthyroidism may also develop the condition. You may notice your cat’s meowing increases for unknown reasons. Left untreated, hypertension can result in serious target organ damage affecting the eyes, kidneys, heart, and brain.

I recently received a press release from Ceva Santé Animale S.A. with information about their new feline-specific treatment for control of systemic hypertension. AMODIP(R) (amlodipine besylate chewable tablets) is now available in the United States.

As veterinary teams continue to emphasize routine blood pressure monitoring and early diagnosis, the availability of a treatment specifically developed for feline patients represents an important advancement in feline medicine. The following information is provided by Ceva Sante.

AMODIP(R) OFFERS A CAT-SPECIFIC TREATMENT OPTION

AMODIP® provides veterinarians with a feline-specific treatment option designed to support long-term disease management through precise dosing, with ease of administration driven by 80% acceptance when offered with or without food.

Studies indicate that approximately one in five cats over nine years of age may be affected by hypertension, and up to 65% of cats with CKD and 27% of cats with hyperthyroidism may also develop the condition. Left untreated, hypertension can result in serious target organ damage affecting the eyes, kidneys, heart, and brain.

As veterinary teams continue to emphasize routine blood pressure monitoring and early diagnosis, the availability of a treatment specifically developed for feline patients represents an important advancement in feline medicine.

“The launch of AMODIP® represents an important milestone in our commitment to advancing feline health,” said Brad McCollum, Vice President, Companion Animal, Ceva Animal Health. “Hypertension is a serious but often underrecognized condition in cats. With the availability of AMODIP®, veterinarians now have access to a product specifically developed to address the challenges felines and their caregivers face. 

Successful management of feline hypertension depends on consistent administration of long-term therapy. However, challenges associated with medicating cats can create barriers to adherence. 

The chicken-flavored chewable tablet is scored to support precise dosing and demonstrated 80% acceptance with or without food, helping make treatment easier for caregivers and patients alike. 

“Systemic hypertension can have serious consequences for feline patients, including damage to target organs such as the eyes, kidneys, heart, and brain,” said Dr. Susanne Heartsill, Head of Companion Animal Veterinary Services, Ceva Animal Health. “Clinical signs may not be recognized until the disease has progressed. Routine blood pressure assessment is an important component of feline wellness. This is particularly true for senior cats and those with chronic kidney disease or hyperthyroidism.”

In addition to supporting patient care, AMODIP® helps keep veterinary practices at the center of hypertension management. Available exclusively through veterinarians, AMODIP® supports ongoing patient monitoring, follow-up appointments, blood pressure assessments, laboratory testing, and prescription management that are critical to long-term disease control. 

For more information about AMODIP®, including prescribing information and product resources, visit amodip.com or contact your Ceva Animal Health representative.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

AMODIP® (amlodipine besylate tablets) chewable tablets are for oral use in cats only. Do not use in cats with a hypersensitivity to amlodipine. Not for use in humans. Keep out of reach of children. Keep AMODIP® in a secure location out of reach of dogs, cats, and other animals to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose. AMODIP® has not been evaluated in cats with systolic blood pressure >200 mm Hg. Cats at risk for hypokalemia should be monitored regularly during treatment with AMODIP®. The safe use of AMODIP® in cats with hepatic disease has not been evaluated. AMODIP® is metabolized by the liver. AMODIP® may cause an increase in urine volume and decrease in urine specific gravity. The safe use of AMODIP® has not been evaluated in cats less than 11 months of age, or in cats that are pregnant, lactating, or intended for breeding. For complete prescribing information, visit amodip.com.  

About Ceva Animal Health

Ceva Animal Health is the 5th largest global animal health company. Led by experienced veterinarians, our mission is to provide innovative animal health solutions, ensuring the highest level of care and well-being. Our portfolio includes preventive medicine such as vaccines, pharmaceuticals and animal welfare products for farm and companion animals. We also provide equipment and services to provide the best experience for our customers.  With 7,000 employees located in 47 countries, Ceva strives daily to bring to life its vision as a OneHealth company: “Together, beyond animal health”.       

AMODIP^® is registered trademarks of Ceva Santé Animale S.A.

Learn more about senior cat health concerns in my book COMPLETE CARE FOR YOUR AGING CAT.