{"title":"A Quick Reference on Hyperkalemia.","authors":"Luis Feo Bernabe, Helio Autran de Morais","doi":"10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.009","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.009","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Hyperkalemia is mainly caused by decreased renal potassium excretion but can also result from increased intake or cellular translocation. It affects water and electrolyte balance, with serum levels serving as a key diagnostic indicator. Elevated potassium levels (>6.5 mEq/L) can lead to serious cardiac disturbances such as bradycardia, necessitating urgent treatment when levels exceed 7.5 mEq/L. Management includes identifying and treating the underlying cause, with therapies such as insulin, bicarbonate, and terbutaline. Careful monitoring of potassium, especially in patients on certain medications or with renal impairment, is essential to prevent life-threatening complications.</p>","PeriodicalId":49380,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Clinics of North America-Small Animal Practice","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145294131","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Quick Reference on Magnesium.","authors":"Jordi Puig, Helio Autran de Morais","doi":"10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.011","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.011","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This article highlights the essential physiological roles of magnesium, a predominantly intracellular cation and critical cofactor in numerous enzymatic reactions that support metabolism, electrolyte balance, neuromuscular transmission, and muscle contraction. The majority of magnesium is stored in bone, with smaller amounts in muscle. Because 99% resides intracellularly, serum concentrations are a poor reflection of total body stores. Magnesium homeostasis is maintained through intestinal absorption, skeletal storage, and renal regulation. Hypomagnesemia can lead to refractory hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, tremors, and arrhythmias, though its nonspecific clinical signs are often masked by concurrent disorders. The article emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis, appropriate management, and supplementation.</p>","PeriodicalId":49380,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Clinics of North America-Small Animal Practice","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145294128","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Quick Reference on Hypokalemia.","authors":"Luis Feo Bernabe, Helio Autran de Morais","doi":"10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.010","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.010","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Hypokalemia occurs due to gastrointestinal or renal losses, transcellular shifts, or reduced intake. Serum potassium reflects extracellular water balance but not total body potassium. Clinical signs, including muscle weakness and arrhythmias, usually develop when levels fall below 2.5-3.0 mEq/L. Diagnosis relies on serum potassium measurement, urinalysis, and investigation of underlying conditions such as kidney disease or gastrointestinal loss. Treatment aims to correct the potassium deficit and manage the primary cause, with intravenous supplementation reserved for severe cases. Proper evaluation and timely therapy are essential to prevent complications and restore electrolyte balance in affected patients.</p>","PeriodicalId":49380,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Clinics of North America-Small Animal Practice","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145294125","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Quick Reference on Hypocalcemia.","authors":"Valerie J Parker, Dennis J Chew","doi":"10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.013","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.013","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This article discusses calcium homeostasis, emphasizing the importance of ionized calcium (iCa) as the active form regulated primarily by parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, and other factors. It highlights causes of hypocalcemia, including renal, gastrointestinal, and endocrine disorders, and notes that clinical signs-such as neuromuscular excitability and cardiac arrhythmias-often depend on severity and rapidity of onset. Diagnosis involves measuring serum and ionized calcium, with treatment focusing on correcting underlying causes and carefully restoring iCa levels, especially in animals with seizures or severe clinical signs. Monitoring and avoiding overcorrection are essential for effective management.</p>","PeriodicalId":49380,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Clinics of North America-Small Animal Practice","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145294156","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Copper-associated Chronic Hepatitis in Dogs.","authors":"Elise R den Boer, Hille Fieten, Kathleen M Aicher","doi":"10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.08.010","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.08.010","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Copper-associated hepatitis is a common cause of primary liver disease in dogs, generally caused by a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental factors, such as dietary copper intake. Several mutations involving the genes ATPase copper transporting alpha, ATPase copper transporting beta, and copper metabolism domain containing 1 partly explain heritability in certain breeds. Predisposed breeds include Bedlington terriers, Dobermanns, Labrador retrievers, Cavalier King Charles spaniels, West Highland White terriers, and Dalmatians. Early diagnosis through liver biopsy and copper quantification is critical to prevent cirrhosis. Genetic testing and selective breeding can help manage risk in predisposed breeds.</p>","PeriodicalId":49380,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Clinics of North America-Small Animal Practice","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145276402","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Quick Reference on Hypoxemia.","authors":"Céline Pouzot-Nevoret","doi":"10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.001","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.001","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This text outlines a structured approach to diagnose and manage hypoxemia in dogs and cats using pulse oximetry and arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis. It details the main causes-low FiO2, hypoventilation, and venous admixture-and explains how tools like the A-a gradient, partial pressure of oxygen/FiO2 ratio, and respiratory-rate oxygenation index help assess severity and guide therapy. Stepwise ABG interpretation is emphasized to tailor oxygen support, from conventional methods to high-flow oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation in severe cases. Continuous monitoring improves prognosis and informs escalation of care.</p>","PeriodicalId":49380,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Clinics of North America-Small Animal Practice","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145276404","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Quick Reference on Hypercalcemia.","authors":"Valerie J Parker, Dennis J Chew","doi":"10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.012","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.012","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This article discusses hypercalcemia, emphasizing its causes, diagnosis, and management. It highlights that serum calcium levels reflect water and protein-bound calcium, with ionized calcium being the active form. Common causes include primary hyperparathyroidism, malignancy, kidney disease, vitamin D toxicity, and systemic illnesses. Clinical signs often relate to neuromuscular and cardiovascular disturbances, especially at severe levels. Diagnosis involves measuring serum and ionized calcium, assessing underlying conditions, and differentiating between parathyroid-dependent and independent causes. Treatment focuses on addressing the primary cause, dietary modifications, or surgical intervention, with careful monitoring to prevent complications.</p>","PeriodicalId":49380,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Clinics of North America-Small Animal Practice","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145276491","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Quick Reference on Respiratory Alkalosis.","authors":"Kate Hopper","doi":"10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.002","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.002","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The incidence of respiratory acid-base abnormalities in the critical care unit (CCU) is unknown, although respiratory alkalosis is suspected to be common in this population. Abnormal carbon dioxide levels can have many physiologic effects and in specific patient populations, changes in Pco<sub>2</sub> has been associated with outcome. Monitoring Pco<sub>2</sub> in CCU patients is an important aspect of critical patient assessment and identification of respiratory acid-base abnormalities can be valualbe as a diagnostic tool. Treatment of respiratory alkalosis is largely focused on resolution of the primary disease.</p>","PeriodicalId":49380,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Clinics of North America-Small Animal Practice","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145276441","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Quick Reference on Anion Gap and Strong Ion Gap.","authors":"Carlos Torrente Artero","doi":"10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.004","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.004","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Metabolic acid-base disorders frequently occur in emergency and critically ill patients. Recognizing these disturbances can be challenging, particularly when multiple acid-base imbalances coexist within a single patient. The anion gap (AG) and strong ion gap (SIG) are valuable calculations that help identify complex metabolic acid-base disturbances associated with unmeasured anions. This review provides definitions, reference values, indications, limitations, and guidelines for interpreting AG and SIG changes in clinical settings.</p>","PeriodicalId":49380,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Clinics of North America-Small Animal Practice","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145245619","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Quick Reference on Respiratory Acidosis.","authors":"Kate Hopper","doi":"10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.003","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2025.09.003","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This article discusses respiratory acidosis, a condition caused by inadequate alveolar ventilation leading to elevated Pco<sub>2</sub> levels. It highlights the importance of accurate blood gas analysis for diagnosis, emphasizing the role of Pco<sub>2</sub> measurement in animals at risk, such as those on sedation or mechanical ventilation. Causes include neuromuscular weakness, airway obstruction, and drug effects. Management involves addressing the primary cause, providing oxygen therapy, and using mechanical ventilation if necessary. Recognizing and treating respiratory acidosis promptly can be crucial in animals with progressive causes of hypoventilation or intracranial hypertension.</p>","PeriodicalId":49380,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Clinics of North America-Small Animal Practice","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145234150","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}