The Veterinary clinics of North America. Equine practice2026; S0749-0739(26)00051-9; doi: 10.1016/j.cveq.2026.07.004

Disorders of Calcium in Horses and Foals.

Toribio, RE

Abstract: Disorders of calcium homeostasis are frequent in equids with acute and chronic disorders. These animals may have abnormal phosphorus concentrations. Prompt identification and treatment are central for a positive outcome. A basic understanding of calcium regulation facilitates the diagnosis and treatment of calcium dysregulation. In horses, hypocalcemia is more often associated with acute conditions linked to systemic inflammation (eg, sepsis, gastrointestinal diseases), although hypocalcemia is also a feature of hypoparathyroidism and acute kidney injury. Magnesium supplementation should be considered in animals with refractory hypocalcemia. Most hypocalcemic disorders have a guarded to good prognosis. Hypercalcemia is usually associated with chronic conditions.

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Publication Date: 2026-09-17 PubMed ID: 42754427DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2026.07.004Google Scholar: Lookup

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Overview

This article discusses disorders related to calcium balance in horses and foals, highlighting their causes, diagnostic importance, and treatment approaches.
It emphasizes the significance of understanding calcium regulation for managing these disorders effectively to improve health outcomes in equids.

Calcium Homeostasis and Its Importance

Calcium homeostasis refers to the body’s regulation of calcium levels to maintain physiological functions.
Disorders in calcium balance are common in horses with both acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) diseases.
Phosphorus levels can also be abnormal alongside calcium imbalances, indicating the complexity of mineral regulation.
Quick diagnosis and prompt treatment of calcium disturbances are vital for favorable recovery.

Causes and Conditions Associated with Hypocalcemia

Hypocalcemia means low calcium levels in the blood.
It is more commonly seen in acute illnesses involving systemic inflammation such as:
- Sepsis (a severe infection spreading through the body)
- Gastrointestinal diseases
Other causes of hypocalcemia include:
- Hypoparathyroidism (reduced parathyroid hormone production)
- Acute kidney injury
Refractory hypocalcemia (persistent low calcium despite treatment) may require magnesium supplementation since magnesium plays a role in calcium balance.
Prognosis for most hypocalcemic cases ranges from guarded (uncertain) to good, depending on the underlying condition and treatment efficacy.

Causes and Conditions Associated with Hypercalcemia

Hypercalcemia means elevated blood calcium levels.
It is typically linked to chronic diseases rather than acute conditions, although specific diseases are not detailed in the summary.

Clinical Implications and Treatment

Understanding the intricate regulation of calcium is crucial for veterinarians to:
- Diagnose calcium disorders accurately by recognizing associated signs and laboratory findings.
- Decide on the appropriate interventions, such as supplementation of calcium and magnesium as needed.
- Address underlying diseases that either cause or result from calcium dysregulation.
Monitoring mineral levels and systemic health status plays a significant role in the management plan.

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APA

Toribio RE. (2026). Disorders of Calcium in Horses and Foals. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract, S0749-0739(26)00051-9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cveq.2026.07.004