Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Urine Potassium Concentration Analysis in Dogs and Cats: A Case-Based Review.
- Journal:
- Journal of veterinary emergency and critical care (San Antonio, Tex. : 2001)
- Year:
- 2025
- Authors:
- Philp, Helen S et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Veterinary Surgical and Radiological Sciences · United States
Plain-English summary
This study looked at how measuring potassium levels in urine can help veterinarians understand and manage cases of dyskalemia, which means abnormal potassium levels, in dogs and cats. The researchers reviewed several cases where this urine test provided important information that helped narrow down the possible causes of the problem. They discussed different methods for measuring potassium in urine and how these can guide treatment decisions. While this analysis can be very helpful, the authors noted that more research is needed to fully understand its benefits and limitations. Overall, urine potassium concentration analysis can be a useful tool in diagnosing and treating pets with dyskalemia.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To review case examples that demonstrate the clinical applicability of urine potassium concentration analysis for the evaluation of dyskalemia in cats and dogs. DATA SOURCES: Original research articles and textbooks. DATA SYNTHESIS: An approach to clinical interpretation of urine potassium concentration is presented. Five clinical cases with dyskalemia are outlined in which the analysis of urine potassium concentration provided useful information that led to the refinement of the differential diagnosis list. CONCLUSIONS: Urine potassium concentration analysis can aid in the investigation and management of cats and dogs with dyskalemia. This review explores the roles of spot urine potassium concentration measurement, the transtubular potassium gradient, and the urine potassium: urine creatinine concentration ratio. When used appropriately and with knowledge of the limitations, urine potassium concentration analysis can provide valuable insight into the underlying pathophysiology of dyskalemia and help guide treatment decisions. Further studies are needed to understand more fully the scope and limitations of various methods of urine potassium concentration analysis in dogs and cats.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41117764/