ELECTROLYTE IMBALANCES (ENDOCRINE-RELATED)
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Endocrine diseases often disrupt sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride levels, causing weakness, tremors, collapse, heart arrhythmias, and GI signs.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD
• Dehydration
• GI upset
MEDICAL
• Addison’s disease (low sodium, high potassium)
• Kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Hypercalcemia (cancer, Addison’s, toxins)
• Severe thyroid disease
EMERGENCY
• Extreme potassium imbalance
• Severe hypercalcemia
• Heart arrhythmias
• Seizures
RED FLAGS
• Trembling
• Collapse
• Irregular heartbeat
• Pale gums
• If unsure, treat as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE
• Encourage water
• Avoid excessive exercise
Not a substitute for urgent care.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Electrolytes
• Blood gas
• ECG
• Kidney function
• Endocrine testing
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Addison’s
• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Hypercalcemia
• Cushing’s
RISK FACTORS
• Seniors
• Dogs with endocrine disease
• Cats with kidney disease
WHEN TO SCHEDULE
• Immediate: collapse or trembling
• 24 hrs: persistent GI signs
LONGEVITY IMPACT
Electrolyte stability is key to cardiac, kidney, and neurological longevity.
LONGEVITY CONSULT
Recommended for any pet with repeated abnormalities.