What fluids and supplements are indicated for uroabdomen foals?

• A. 0.9% NaCl, dextrose, insulin, calcium gluconate
• B. Balanced crystalloids with potassium
• C. Lactated Ringer's solution only
• D. Hypertonic saline with no glucose

Answer: (A)

Uroabdomen foals cause rapid electrolyte disturbances, especially dangerous hyperkalemia, as urine in the abdomen is reabsorbed back into the bloodstream. Stabilizing these foals relies on volume support and actively correcting the potassium while protecting the heart. Using 0.9% saline provides a potassium-free, isotonic fluid that expands the intravascular volume and helps dilute and flush electrolytes. Giving dextrose provides glucose so that when insulin is given to move potassium into cells, the foal has an energy source and won’t become hypoglycemic. Insulin then lowers the serum potassium by driving it into cells, and calcium gluconate helps stabilize the heart against the effects of high potassium during this shift.

Other options fail to address the hyperkalemia and its cardiac risks as effectively. Fluids that contain potassium can worsen the potassium surplus, while a crystalloid without a means to reduce high potassium won’t prevent arrhythmias. Hypertonic saline without glucose won’t correct the potassium burden or provide the insulin-mediated shift.