This webinar provides a comprehensive overview of feline primary hyperaldosteronism, an endocrine disorder caused by excessive autonomous secretion of aldosterone from the adrenal cortex. The session begins with a review of adrenal physiology and the mechanisms regulating aldosterone production, including the renin–angiotensin system and potassium balance. The most common underlying causes, such as adrenal tumors and bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, are also discussed.
Participants will learn how mineralocorticoid excess leads to key clinical manifestations including hypokalemia, systemic hypertension, and progressive renal disease. Particular attention is given to the characteristic neuromuscular signs caused by severe hypokalemia, such as muscle weakness, plantigrade stance, ventroflexion of the neck, and difficulty jumping.
The webinar outlines a practical diagnostic approach, including interpretation of serum potassium, plasma aldosterone concentrations, the aldosterone-to-renin ratio, and additional tests such as urinary aldosterone measurements and suppression testing. The role and limitations of diagnostic imaging in identifying adrenal lesions are also discussed.
Finally, the session reviews current treatment strategies, including surgical adrenalectomy for unilateral disease and medical management with mineralocorticoid receptor blockers, potassium supplementation, and antihypertensive therapy in non-surgical cases. Clinical cases illustrate how this condition can mimic chronic kidney disease and highlight the importance of considering hyperaldosteronism in cats presenting with hypokalemia and hypertension.
