Hypocalcaemia following thyroid surgery or other procedures causes severe acute welfare harm in cats if not managed, requiring close post-operative monitoring.
Post-surgical hypocalcaemia causes acute and severe suffering in affected cats. Muscle cramping, pain and seizures represent extreme welfare harm that can be prevented through appropriate monitoring and prophylactic supplementation in at-risk patients. Owners must be fully briefed on warning signs before discharge to enable prompt return for treatment. The welfare impact of untreated hypocalcaemia is profound and the condition is readily treatable with appropriate preparation and monitoring protocols.