I'm really worried and could use some advice. My 22-month-old Labrador, Max, just had a routine check-up at the vet, and they found his calcium levels are elevated. The vet didn't seem overly concerned but mentioned it could potentially relate to his diet or even a hormonal imbalance. I'm kind of freaking out because Max has always been healthy and full of energy, and I haven’t noticed any changes in his behavior or appetite. I feed him a pretty standard dog diet, nothing fancy or out of the ordinary. Has anyone else experienced this? What could be causing his calcium levels to rise, and should I push for more tests or adjustments to his diet? I just want to make sure I'm doing everything I can for my boy. Any insights or similar experiences would really help ease my mind.
Thanks for reaching out with your concern about your dog’s raised calcium levels. Elevated calcium, known as hypercalcemia, can be due to several reasons. Common causes include dietary imbalances, certain medications, and more critical conditions like hyperparathyroidism or cancer. It's important to also consider less serious causes, like dehydration or lab errors.
At home, ensure your dog is drinking plenty of water, as this can sometimes help manage calcium levels. You might consider offering more wet food to increase fluid intake, which is beneficial. However, avoid changing their diet drastically without veterinary advice.
Keep an eye out for any signs that might indicate a serious issue, such as increased thirst or urination, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy. If any of these symptoms appear, it would be wise to seek veterinary advice promptly, as untreated hypercalcemia can cause harm to your dog’s organs.
It’s great that you are being proactive. I’d recommend booking a video consult with a vet on Dial A Vet to discuss your dog’s situation in more detail. This way, we can determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan tailored for your furry friend.
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