What is the IV shock dose for volume depletion in cats?

• A. 30 ml/kg
• B. 50 ml/kg
• C. 60 ml/kg
• D. 70 ml/kg

Answer: (B)

In treating volume loss with shock, the goal is to restore perfusion quickly by expanding the intravascular space with IV fluids. For cats, the standard starting shock dose of isotonic crystalloid is about 50 ml/kg, delivered rapidly as a bolus. This amount is large enough to markedly improve circulatory volume and tissue perfusion without being excessively risky in the typical dehydrated cat. Clinically, you’d administer it in a couple of quick boluses (for example, two 25 ml/kg pushes) and reassess the cat’s response before giving more. If perfusion remains inadequate, you can repeat boluses while watching for signs of fluid overload, especially in cats with heart or lung disease. Smaller doses, like 30 ml/kg, may be insufficient to correct shock promptly, while larger doses, such as 60–70 ml/kg, increase the risk of edema and respiratory complications.