Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Low sodium and high potassium linked to belly fluid in cats
By Bissett, S A et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·2001·Department of Clinical Studies, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Hyponatremia and hyperkalemia associated with peritoneal effusion in four cats.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
Four cats with fluid buildup in their bellies were found to have low sodium (hyponatremia) and high potassium (hyperkalemia) levels in their blood. The vets suspected adrenal gland issues, but tests showed that the adrenal glands were functioning normally. Since they couldn't find another reason for the electrolyte imbalances, they concluded that these issues were likely caused by the fluid buildup itself. The cats were monitored, but specific treatments for the electrolyte problems were not detailed in the findings.
People also search for: cat fluid buildup in belly · cat low sodium high potassium · cat adrenal gland problems · cat peritoneal effusion treatment
Abstract
Four cats with considerable peritoneal effusion and corresponding hyponatremia and hyperkalemia were evaluated. The Na:K ratio in all cats was < 25, which is suggestive of adrenal insufficiency. An ACTH stimulation test was performed on 3 cats for evaluation of adrenal gland function. Serum cortisol and aldosterone concentrations did not support a diagnosis of adrenal gland insufficiency. In 1 cat, histologic evaluation of the adrenal glands at necropsy also failed to support a diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism. On the basis of these findings, and because hyponatremia and hyperkalemia could not be readily explained by another cause, the electrolyte abnormalities were presumed to be secondary to peritoneal effusion.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11393370/