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Electrolytes are the salts and metallic components that are dissolved within the blood serum (serum is the liquid portion of blood). The electrolytes of greatest clinical importance are sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, phosphorus, and calcium.
Electrolytes are involved in most of the body's daily functions. For example, electrolytes are required for proper nerve conduction, for heart and skeletal muscle contraction, for maintenance of proper hydration, and for maintenance of proper blood pH.
A single blood sample is all that is required for electrolyte determination. This sample may be analyzed in the veterinary clinic or sent to a veterinary referral laboratory for electrolyte determination.
In most instances, changes in electrolyte concentrations do not indicate any specific disease; they occur as secondary changes caused by certain diseases or conditions.
Occasionally, the pattern of electrolyte change may point to a specific disease. For example, a change in the ratio of sodium to potassium may suggest hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease) in dogs.
Changes in electrolyte concentrations may have significant consequences due to their role in muscle contraction, nerve conduction, and water balance.
It is important to detect changes in electrolyte concentrations so that these changes can be treated before the situation becomes severe or life-threatening. Often, electrolyte changes must be addressed first, before the underlying disease condition is controlled or treated.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Jul 2, 2024.
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