Under Pressure: The Intricacies of Blood Pressure and Hypertension in Exotic Animals.

This article explores the complexities of blood pressure regulation and measurement across animal species. It begins by outlining mammalian blood pressure physiology before examining known differences in birds and reptiles. The article highlights species-specific variations in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, baroreceptor pathways, and hormonal influences on vascular tone and fluid balance. Techniques for direct and indirect blood pressure measurement are discussed, with emphasis on their limitations. The article also evaluates current therapeutic options for managing hypertension in exotic animals and identifies significant knowledge gaps that must be addressed through future research.