What is the normal range for AST and ALT. Understand high, low and normal results, symptoms and causes related to AST and ALT levels in cats.

Understanding AST and ALT Levels in Cats

Biochemical analysis of a cat’s blood is one of the most informative methods for diagnosing the state of the animal’s body. It allows veterinarians to identify pathologies that cannot be determined visually or through other examination techniques. The network of veterinary clinics “Svoi Doktor” in Moscow offers this service at competitive prices, providing a detailed analysis within 12 hours to a day.

The Role of Key Enzymes

The functioning of a cat’s body involves a continuous chain of chemical reactions, with various enzymes playing a crucial role. The most active enzymes include:

• ALT (alanine aminotransferase) – Involved in amino acid metabolism. Normal level: 10 – 80 units/liter. Increased levels indicate liver toxicity, heart failure, shock, or trauma, while decreased levels can signify cirrhosis, liver necrosis, or vitamin B6 deficiency.
• AST (aspartate aminotransferase) – Responsible for the transfer of amino groups within cells. Normal range: 10 – 80 units/liter. Exceeding the normal range can indicate hepatitis, pancreatitis, physical overwork, or heart failure, while a low level may suggest a severe course of any disease or liver rupture.
• CPK or CK (creatine phosphokinase) – Involved in the processes occurring in the heart, muscles, and thyroid gland. Normal level: 150 to 798 units/liter.
• ALP (alkaline phosphatase) – Plays an important role in metabolic processes. Standard range: 39 to 55 units/liter. Increased levels can indicate bone disease, hyperparathyroidism, lymphogranulomatosis, liver problems, or vitamin C overdose, while decreased levels may be associated with anemia, zinc, magnesium, vitamin C, or B12 deficiency.
• Alpha-amylase – A digestive enzyme produced by the pancreas. Normal level: 580 – 1720 units/liter. Increased levels can suggest pancreatitis or other pancreatic diseases, acute peritonitis, or kidney problems.

Understanding Other Biochemical Parameters

Deviations from the norm in various other biochemical parameters can also provide valuable insights into a cat’s health:

• Urea – Normal range: 6 – 12 mmol/liter. Excess indicates heart failure, kidney disease, impaired urine outflow, oncology, shock, or intestinal obstruction, while decreased levels below the minimum can signify liver problems or poisoning with toxic substances.
• Creatinine – Standard range: 40 – 130 µmol/liter. Increased levels suggest renal insufficiency or hyperthyroidism, while decreased levels may indicate malnutrition and loss of muscle mass.
• Phosphorus – Normal range: 1.1 – 2.3 mmol/liter. Excess can indicate bone destruction, kidney disease, acidosis, or cirrhosis, while decreased levels may be associated with rickets, periodontal disease, hypercalcemia, hyperparathyroidism, or hyperinsulinemia.
• Calcium – Normal range: 2 – 2.7 mmol/liter. Increased levels can suggest cancer, dehydration, or kidney failure, while decreased levels may indicate rickets, osteodystrophy, pancreatitis, or liver disease.
• Total Protein – Normal range: 54 – 77 g/liter. Excess can indicate an acute infectious disease, oncology, or dehydration, while decreased levels below the standard range may be associated with pancreatitis, liver, intestinal, or kidney diseases, or cancer.

Importance of Accurate Biochemical Analysis

Biochemical analysis of a cat’s blood should be performed strictly on an empty stomach to ensure the accuracy of the results. The employees of the “Svoi Doktor” laboratory are certified specialists who use modern equipment and follow strict protocols, ensuring high-quality diagnostics. The biomaterial is taken from a vein using sterile instruments, and if the cat is calm, the owner can hold it during the procedure. If the cat is likely to break out, it is fixed on its side for the safety of both the animal and the personnel.

Importance of Veterinary Consultation

After the biochemical analysis, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to interpret the results and determine the appropriate course of action. The deviations from the norm in various biochemical parameters can provide valuable insights into the cat’s health, allowing the veterinarian to quickly diagnose the underlying condition and prescribe the necessary treatment. The biochemical analysis can also help determine if the cat’s diet is suitable for its nutritional needs.

Conclusion

Biochemical analysis of a cat’s blood is a crucial diagnostic tool that can help identify underlying health issues that may not be readily apparent through other examination methods. By understanding the normal ranges and the implications of deviations in key enzymes and other biochemical parameters, pet owners and veterinarians can work together to ensure the optimal health and well-being of their feline companions.