Why is my cat's potassium low if kidney tests are normal?

Question

Hi my vet says Tony's potassium is low. On 12/28/17 it was 3.2, recheck on 1/3/18 was up to 3.6, and now a recheck today says he’s low again. His blood work shows kidney values and SDMA are normal but she thinks I should have him get a Kidney ultrasound. Any advice.. could this be a kidney issue even tho blood work says kidneys are normal. Fyi..other issues tony has, and takes meds for, are hi blood pressure and hyperthyroidism thanks!!! Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 18 years old | 9.5 lbs

Rodrigo Roca, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello, sorry to hear about Tony. A low potassium may be secondary to a decrease dietary intake. However, if Tony is on amlodipine, then this can cause a low potassium as well. If his kidney values are normal, then it is less likely that he has kidney disease. I would recommend continuing to monitor him and if he is otherwise eating, drinking, and acting normally then you may not need to pursue an abdominal ultrasound at this point. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Why is my cat's potassium low if kidney tests are normal?

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