SHAKING / TREMORS (ENDOCRINE-RELATED)
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Tremors can result from low blood sugar, electrolyte abnormalities, Addison’s disease, hyperthyroidism, or stress.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD
• Stress
• Cold exposure
MEDICAL
• Hypoglycemia
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Addison’s disease
• Hyperthyroidism
• Kidney disease
• Pain
EMERGENCY
• Seizure activity
• Severe hypoglycemia
• Addisonian crisis
RED FLAGS
• Tremors + vomiting
• Tremors + collapse
• Tremors + pale gums
• If unsure, treat as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE
• Keep warm
• Offer small amount of food if conscious
This does not replace emergency care.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Electrolytes
• Glucose
• Kidney values
• Cortisol
• Thyroid panel
• ECG if arrhythmias suspected
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Low blood sugar
• Addison’s
• Kidney disease
• Pain
• Thyroid disease
RISK FACTORS
• Toy breeds (hypoglycemia)
• Senior cats (thyroid)
• Dogs with endocrine issues
WHEN TO SCHEDULE
• Immediate: tremors + weakness
• 24 hrs: persistent shaking
LONGEVITY IMPACT
This is one of the top metabolic patterns that shorten lifespan if untreated.
LONGEVITY CONSULT
Recommended for pets with recurrent tremors or endocrine disease.