How to Treat Mild Metabolic Acidosis

Metabolic acidosis sounds grave and can be a complex diagnosis for any cat or dog owner to understand. In simplified terms, metabolic acidosis is an imbalance of your pet's natural acid-to-base ratio. The acids and bases are out of balance; specifically, there is too much acid and a decrease in pH. There can be many causes of metabolic acidosis along with nonexistent to severe symptoms that can make this condition in pets all the more worrisome. For pet owners looking to understand this condition here are some key points to further research laid out step by step.

Instructions

• 1

  Know the symptoms of metabolic acidosis. In mild cases, you may not recognize any symptoms in your cat or dog. Vomiting, lethargy and problems walking can occur in more severe cases.

• 2

  Look for the causes of metabolic acidosis. This condition can be caused by many things including kidney failure, diabetes or the animal eating antifreeze. It is important to know the cause in order to treat your pet.

• 3

  Investigate your treatment options. Treatment by your veterinarian will depend on the cause of the metabolic acidosis disorder. Antitoxins can be used if your pet has eaten antifreeze, or fluids may be given to pets with kidney failure.

• 4

  Ask your vet questions at each appointment. Write down questions to take with you. Keep your notebook handy during the appointment so that you can write down what your vet says to review later.