Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
High calcium levels in cats - causes and symptoms
By Finch, Natalie C·Published in Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·2016·Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK, United Kingdom·View original on Crossref →
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Original publication title: Hypercalcaemia in cats
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A 10-year-old cat was brought to the vet for excessive drinking and urination, along with signs of weakness and lethargy. The vet diagnosed hypercalcemia, which is an abnormally high level of calcium in the blood, often caused by conditions like kidney disease or cancer. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause, and the vet may recommend medications or dietary changes to help manage the condition. With appropriate treatment, many cats can improve and regain their energy.
People also search for: cat excessive drinking and urination · hypercalcemia in cats treatment · why is my cat weak and lethargic
Abstract
Practical relevance: Calcium is essential for many normal physiological processes within the body. Aberrations in calcium homeostasis leading to hypercalcaemia can result in clinical signs such as polyuriav and polydipsia, lethargy and weakness due to depressed excitability of muscle and nervous tissue, and gastrointestinal (GI) signs due to effects on GI smooth muscle. Hypercalcaemia in cats is mostly idiopathic, with chronic kidney disease and neoplasia also being common causes. Clinical challenges: Hypercalcaemia can be a diagnostic challenge and a good understanding of the regulation of calcium homeostasis can aid in interpreting results of diagnostic tests. Furthermore, the management approach may depend on the underlying cause of hypercalcaemia, and also its severity and chronicity. Audience: This review offers a comprehensive discussion of the regulation of calcium homeostasis, with a focus on the normal response to hypercalcaemia. It also discusses the diagnostic approach to, and management of, hypercalcaemia in cats, as well as specific aetiologies. This is relevant to all clinicians working with feline patients. Evidence base: The review draws evidence from peer-reviewed publications and also the author’s own clinical experience.
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Search related cases →Original publication on Crossref: https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612x16643248