Sodium phosphate enema causes life-threatening disorders

Tomsa et al have observed that application of a sodium phosphate containing enema can cause severe life-threatening metabolic disorders. The severe adverse effects were observed both in a Dachshund and two cats. The clinical signs seen were marked by dehydration and neurological deficits like seizures.

The most striking laboratory abnormalities were hypernatraemia, hypocalcaemia, hyperphosphataemia, and polycythaemia. Although immediate and intensive measures were undertaken to resuscitate the animals, the dog succumbed while the cats recovered.

Therefore, in the light of these observations, Tomsa and colleagues caution against the use of sodium phosphate enemas in small breeds of dogs and cats.

Reference for further reading:
Tomsa, K. Steffen, F. Glaus, T. [Life threatening metabolic disorders after application of a sodium phosphate containing enema in the dog and cat.] J Schweiz Arch Tierheilkd: V 143:N 5:P 257-61: 2001.
Klinik fur Kleintiermedizin, University Zurich. ktomsa@vetklinik.unizh.ch