Hypercalcemia is an abnormally high level of calcium in the blood. The condition is more common in dogs than in cats, but the occurrence of hypercalcemia in cats without an obvious cause is increasing, according to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA).
-
Common Symptoms
-
The most common symptoms of hypercalcemia in cats include loss of appetite and lethargy, experienced by about 88 percent of cats with this disorder, according to the WSAVA.
No Symptoms
-
Mild to moderate cases of feline hypercalcemia with no apparent cause may have no symptoms and might only be noticed during a routine blood test.
Other Possible Symptoms
-
Additional signs of feline hypercalcemia may include increased urination, increased water consumption, constipation or diarrhea, weakness and vomiting.
Warning
-
If very high blood calcium levels are not treated, serious damage to the kidneys and soft tissues can occur. A total of 38 percent of cats with hypercalcemia eventually experience renal failure, as noted by the WSAVA.
Diagnosis
-
Diagnostic tests, including a complete blood count and urinalysis, are needed to exclude other diseases that cause similar symptoms to hypercalcemia.
-