A high potassium level can be harmful to a cat, so if you suspect your cat may be suffering from excessively high potassium levels, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
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Causes
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The most common cause for high potassium levels in a feline is kidney failure, but diabetes and acidosis (a blood plasma pH imbalance) can also attribute to a spike in potassium.
Frequency of Occurrence
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Hyperkalemia is a fairly common side effect in cats suffering from end-stage renal disease. At this point the kidneys are unable to sufficiently rid the body of excess potassium and other chemicals, and so the build-up of it is common.
Symptoms
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Symptoms of high potassium in cats include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, and a slow, weak or altogether absent pulse. Some cats may also show signs of confusion.
Diagnosis
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Diagnosing high potassium in cats is most often done with blood work. A simple lab test can determine the potassium count, though it is important that drawn blood is processed as soon as possible to ensure accurate results.
Treatment
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Treat high potassium by stopping any potassium supplements, and perhaps starting fluid therapy. Insulin used in conjunction with sodium bicarbonate or dextrose can also effectively lower high potassium levels. Diuretics may also be used to increase urine output.
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