Recent research has identified a problem related to potassium balance which is common in many older cats. Fortunately, the problem is treatable. As a result, many elderly cats are now living longer and healthier lives. Potassium is found in the cat's blood and within all the cells of the body. It is essential for many functions of cells.
Potassium is probably most important for the cells which make up skeletal and cardiac muscle.
Severe muscle weakness can result when the body becomes depleted of potassium. Recently, two important discoveries have been made about potassium and older cats. Heretofore, we have considered these to be part of the aging process. Now we know that this process can be reversed with supplementation of potassium. Unfortunately, we do not have a test to conclusively identify these cats because the blood test for potassium is a poor reflection of the body's total store of potassium.