Asian Journal of Current Research

Cholecalciferol (vitamin D₃) toxicosis is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening intoxication in companion animals, characterised by persistent hypercalcaemia and hyperphosphataemia that may lead to metastatic soft tissue mineralisation, acute kidney injury, and cardiovascular complications. This report describes a two-month-old domestic long-haired kitten weighing approximately 1.0 kg that presented approximately 3 days after accidental ingestion of three cholecalciferol (vitamin D₃) capsules (60,000 IU each). The kitten exhibited repeated vomiting, anorexia, reduced water intake, lethargy, and constipation. Physical examination revealed mild dehydration, pale mucous membranes, and prolonged capillary refill time. Serum biochemical analysis demonstrated marked hypercalcaemia (17.1 mg/dL) and hyperphosphataemia (10.73 mg/dL). Together with the documented history of toxin exposure, these findings strongly supported a presumptive diagnosis of acute cholecalciferol toxicosis, although serum vitamin D metabolite concentrations were not measured. The kitten was managed with intravenous isotonic crystalloid fluid therapy, furosemide, prednisolone, antiemetic therapy, gastroprotective medication, and supportive care, resulting in progressive clinical improvement during hospitalisation. This case highlights the importance of obtaining a thorough exposure history, recognising the characteristic biochemical abnormalities, and initiating prompt treatment to reduce the risk of irreversible soft tissue mineralisation and other systemic complications. It also emphasises the need for serial biochemical monitoring to assess therapeutic response and detect delayed complications associated with vitamin D intoxication.