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Identification
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Hyperkalemia is diagnosed by a veterinarian using a blood sample. In certain cases, hyperkalemia can be diagnosed early by the examination of the output of an electrocardiogram (ECG) machine.
Effects
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When potassium is elevated, it interferes with the normal rhythms of your cat's heart, leading to a condition called cardiac arrhythmia and eventually cardiac arrest, or a heart attack.
Causes
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Hyperkalemia originates when a cat is unable to rid the body of biologic and nutritional potassium. This happens most often in cats whose kidneys or bladder are not functioning properly.
Treatment
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Treatment for hyperkalemia includes the administration of fluids and electrolytes. In cases where this is not adequate, a veterinarian will administer insulin and dextrose, a form of sugar, to lower potassium levels. Calcium gluconate is sometimes given to counteract the cardiac effects of hyperkalemia.
Warning
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Cats with hyperkalemia need constant monitoring to ensure that the condition does not worsen and that treatment is effective.
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Hyperkalemia in Cats
Hyperkalemia is a medical term meaning an elevated level of potassium in your cat's bloodstream. Potassium, while necessary for life functions, can cause problems when the body contains too much of it.