Abstract of research

Clinical, Biochemical and Radiographic Alterations in Kittens with Experimental Induced Nutritional Secondary Hyperparathyroidism

Ghanem, M.M.1 , EL Fakhrany, S.F.2 , Abd El-Raof, Y.M.1 , El-Attar, H.M.1

Abstract

Nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism (NSHPT) is a metabolic disorder that is caused by excessive phosphate in diets, insufficient calcium, or both. This study was carried out on 20 male kittens with 2-3 month of age. The NSHPT was induced in 10 kittens by feeding solely on heart beef meat for 9 weeks. The other 10 kittens were fed on commercial diet as control. Clinically, affected kittens were unable to stand or walk then recumbent with bone abnormalities lameness and lately loss their body weight. Serum biochemical changes showed significant (P<0.05) increase in CPK, ALP, phosphorus and 1,25 dihydroxyVit.D3, but showed significant (P<0.05) decrease in 25(OH)Vit.D3, total protein, albumin, globulin, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, calcium, magnesium, copper and zinc in cats with induced NSHPT compared to control. Radiographic changes in cats with induced NSHPT showed generalized decrease in bone opacity which affects entire skeleton (osteoporosis); cortices become thin and faint with decreased bone to soft tissue contrast. It was concluded that NSHPT is associated with clinical, biochemical and radiographic changes in young growing kittens. It is recommended to give kittens a balanced diet especially in Ca and P during the first 9 weeks of life