Hyperkalaemia during two consecutive anaesthetics in an aggressive Bengal cat

Abstract

AbstractThe development of unanticipated hyperkalaemia during general anaesthesia in healthy veterinary patients is an increasingly recognized phenomenon. Cases have been reported in dogs, cats, horses and non‐domestic felids. However, recurrent hyperkalaemia has not yet been described in domestic cats. We report the development of hyperkalaemia during two consecutive anaesthetics in a 5‐year‐old, Bengal cat, anaesthetised for medial patella luxation repair and 3 months later for implant removal. During both procedures, hyperkalaemia was diagnosed. However, it was only during the first anaesthetic that the hyperkalaemia became life‐threatening, necessitating treatment. The reasons why some animals develop hyperkalaemia during general anaesthesia are still unknown. Considering the apparent increasing frequency of this condition, hyperkalaemia should be considered as a potential cause of intraoperative bradydysrhythmias and must be investigated and treated appropriately.