Alterations in acid-base balance and serum electrolyte concentrations in cattle: 632 cases (1984-1994)
Roussel, A.J.; Cohen, N.D.; Holland, P.S.; Taliaoferro, L.; Green, R.; Benson, P.; Navarre, C.B.; Hooper, R.N.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 212(11): 1769-1775
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-1488 PMID: 9621887 Document Number: 486846
Information on blood pH, venous oxygen and carbon dioxide (PVCO2) partial pressures, HCO3- concentration, and base excess (BE) as well as serum or plasma sodium, potassium, chloride, and total carbon dioxide concentrations was obtained for 632 cattle examined at the veterinary teaching hospital of Texas A&M University. Values for calves (<1 month old) were compared with values for cattle >=1 month old. Within each age-group, values were compared for cattle grouped on the basis of breed type, previous treatment, and hydration status. Proportions of cattle with various disorders for which values were within, greater than, or less than reference ranges were determined. BE, pH, and HCO3- concentration were significantly higher and PVCO2 and sodium, potassium, and chloride concentrations were significantly lower among cattle >=1 month old than calves. BE and HCO3- concentration were significantly lower among dairy than beef calves. Sodium and potassium concentrations were significantly lower among dairy than beef cattle >=1 month old. A higher proportion of cattle that did not survive had a high anion gap than cattle that did survive. Sodium, potassium, and chloride concentrations were significantly lower among dehydrated cattle than cattle that were not dehydrated.