This webinar provides a practical and structured overview of hypercalcemia in cats, with a particular focus on feline primary (idiopathic) hypercalcemia. The session begins with a review of calcium physiology and the regulatory roles of parathyroid hormone (PTH), vitamin D (calcitriol), and calcitonin in maintaining calcium homeostasis.
Participants will learn how to recognize the clinical manifestations of hypercalcemia in cats, which may range from nonspecific signs such as lethargy and vomiting to urinary tract signs or even asymptomatic cases detected on routine bloodwork. The webinar discusses the most important differential diagnoses for feline hypercalcemia, including renal disease, hyperparathyroidism, vitamin D dysregulation, neoplasia, and idiopathic causes.
A step-by-step diagnostic approach is presented, including interpretation of total versus ionized calcium, the role of PTH and PTH-related peptide testing, vitamin D measurements, urinalysis, and diagnostic imaging. The session also addresses the limitations of certain diagnostic markers in cats.
Finally, the webinar reviews current treatment strategies for feline idiopathic hypercalcemia, including dietary management and medical therapy such as bisphosphonates, as well as general treatment options for severe hypercalcemia. Clinical case discussions illustrate how to interpret diagnostic findings and guide therapeutic decisions in affected cats.
