What are the common signs of pheochromocytoma in dogs and cats?

Common signs include reduced energy and activity, repeated vomiting or diarrhoea, weight loss, and irregular heart rate or breathing. A definitive diagnosis requires further veterinary testing.

What tests will the vet perform to evaluate pheochromocytoma?

The vet will typically start with a physical examination, blood pressure measurement, and blood tests, followed by abdominal ultrasound and chest radiographs. CT or tissue sampling may be arranged if needed, based on your vet's assessment.

Does pheochromocytoma always require surgery?

Surgery is an option for some patients, but suitability depends on an assessment of risks and overall health. In some cases, medication can be used first to manage symptoms — discuss this with a specialist.

What follow-up is required after treatment?

Pets that have had surgery or are undergoing treatment require regular check-ups to monitor blood pressure and clinical signs, along with imaging follow-up to detect recurrence or metastasis. The frequency and scope of early reviews are adjusted according to veterinary advice.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Pheochromocytoma in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Blood Pressure Monitoring & Treatment [2025]

Adrenal tumour causing hypertension; surgical removal may be required

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Medicine

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Persistently lethargic, poorly responsive, and unable to stand without assistance
•Sudden loss of consciousness or repeated brief fainting episodes
•Uncontrolled vomiting or diarrhea with ongoing signs of dehydration

Schedule a veterinary visit soon (within 24-72 hours)

•Clearly depressed demeanor with a continued decline in activity level
•Repeated vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than two days without improvement
•Marked decrease in appetite or ongoing weight loss over several weeks

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Pheochromocytoma often causes non-specific systemic signs that may resemble general digestive or behavioural changes; further veterinary evaluation is needed.

Lethargy, significantly reduced activity, or excessive sleepiness
Weakness, sluggish movement, or reluctance to walk
Persistent loss of appetite or noticeably picky eating
Repeated vomiting or diarrhoea that does not improve
Progressive weight loss or wasting over several weeks
Possible changes in heart rate or breathing pattern (requires veterinary assessment)

02How to assess the situation at home? Key observations and emergency criteria

Observing and documenting key changes at home helps your vet gauge disease progression and plan appropriate tests.

Note the date symptoms first appeared and how many days they have lasted
Weigh your pet daily and record the figure and date
Record the frequency, timing, and content of any vomiting or diarrhoea
Monitor changes in alertness and activity level; take short video clips as evidence
Track specific changes in daily food and water intake
Bring all these records to your vet appointment to assist the assessment

03How will the vet diagnose this condition? Common diagnostic tests

Your vet will combine physical examination with imaging and biochemical tests to identify the cause and assess any concurrent problems.

Full physical examination including cardiopulmonary auscultation, abdominal palpation, and overall assessment

Blood pressure measurement to monitor changes associated with sympathetic overactivation

Blood and electrolyte tests to assess metabolic status and organ function

Abdominal ultrasound to examine the adrenal glands and adjacent organs

Chest radiographs to check for metastasis or other thoracic abnormalities

Advanced imaging (CT or MRI) to evaluate tumour size and extent of invasion

Tissue biopsy or cytology arranged when necessary to support a pathological diagnosis

04What treatment and care are needed after diagnosis? Medication, diet, and home-care guide

Treatment and follow-up are tailored to each case and its risk profile; pre- and post-operative monitoring combined with regular imaging are essential.

Surgical removal is an option in selected cases; specialist risk assessment is required
Medical therapy can be used to manage clinical signs and stabilise physiological parameters
Regular follow-up visits are needed after surgery to monitor blood pressure and clinical progress
Schedule periodic imaging as directed by your vet to check for recurrence or metastasis
Dietary adjustments and attentive home care can reduce the symptom burden and the risk of complications
Discuss an individualised monitoring plan with an endocrinology or oncology specialist

05What should you prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help your vet quickly identify the cause

Record when symptoms started and how they have changed each day

List recent eating habits and any changes in daily food intake

Note the frequency of vomiting or diarrhoea and describe the consistency and appearance of stools

Bring weight records or scale readings from the past few weeks

Bring a list of all current medications and supplements, including doses

Bring any previous imaging results or laboratory reports to the appointment

Book by phone in advance so the clinic can arrange blood pressure monitoring or advanced imaging if needed

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.

Related Symptoms (You May Also Be Looking For)

Weakness

Reduced strength

Lethargy

Decreased activity

Arrhythmia

Irregular heart rhythm

Blindness

Vision loss

Collapse

Sudden weakness

Ascites

Abdominal fluid