Monitoring Your Dog During Calcitriol Treatment and When to Contact Your Veterinarian

Schedule regular blood tests as directed by your veterinarian. These will monitor your dog’s calcium and phosphorus levels, ensuring the medication is working effectively and preventing potential complications.

Closely observe your dog’s appetite, thirst, and urination habits. Increased thirst or urination could indicate elevated calcium levels. A decreased appetite might suggest a side effect of the medication.

Watch for changes in your dog’s behavior. Lethargy, weakness, or vomiting warrant immediate veterinary attention. These can be signs of hypercalcemia, a serious condition resulting from excessive calcium.

Regularly check your dog’s weight. Unexpected weight loss or gain should be reported to your veterinarian.

Pay attention to your dog’s bowel movements. Constipation can sometimes occur as a side effect.

Symptom Action
Increased thirst or urination Contact your veterinarian immediately.
Lethargy, weakness, vomiting Seek immediate veterinary care.
Significant appetite changes Report to your veterinarian.
Unexpected weight changes Report to your veterinarian.
Constipation Discuss with your veterinarian; they may suggest dietary changes or other remedies.

Maintain open communication with your veterinarian throughout the treatment period. Don’t hesitate to call if you have any concerns, no matter how small they may seem. Early detection of potential problems leads to better outcomes.