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There are also slight (insignificant) effects on the kidney and [[Alimentary System Overview - Anatomy & Physiology|gastrointestinal tract]].
There are also slight (insignificant) effects on the kidney and [[Alimentary System Overview - Anatomy & Physiology|gastrointestinal tract]].
==Calcium Homeostasis in the Rabbit==
The blood calcium concentration is not as closely regulated in the rabbit as in other species. Absorption of calcium from the gut is '''independent of metabolic need or vitamin D levels'''. Serum calcium increases in direct proportion to dietary calcium content. High concentrations of 3-4mmol/L are commonly found in rabbits fed calcium-rich diets, such as alfalfa-based diets.
The primary route of calcium excretion in rabbits is renal, unlike in other species where bile is the primary route of removal. Thus, the '''high urinary excretion''' of calcium may simply reflect the high blood concentrations.
High calcium levels along with other physiologic or pathologic processes may result in '''urolithiasis''', urine sludge, or metastatic calcification and chronic renal disease, especially if excessive vitamin D is provided.
Dilution or replacement of alfalfa-based diets might be advisable if problems occur.
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[http://www.cabi.org/cabdirect/FullTextPDF/2008/20083206581.pdf '''Disorders of calcium regulation in the dog and cat.''' Taboada, J.; The North American Veterinary Conference, Gainesville, USA, Small animal and exotics. Proceedings of the North American Veterinary Conference, Volume 22, Orlando, Florida, USA, 2008, 2008, pp 477-479 - '''Full Text Article''']
[http://www.cabi.org/cabdirect/FullTextPDF/2008/20083206581.pdf '''Disorders of calcium regulation in the dog and cat.''' Taboada, J.; The North American Veterinary Conference, Gainesville, USA, Small animal and exotics. Proceedings of the North American Veterinary Conference, Volume 22, Orlando, Florida, USA, 2008, 2008, pp 477-479 - '''Full Text Article''']
==References==
Harkness, J. (2010) '''Harkness and Wagner Biology and Medicine of Rabbits and Rodents''' ''John Wiley and Sons''
Cheeke, R. (2010) '''Comparative Animal Nutrition and Metabolism''' ''CABI''
[[Category:Endocrine System - Anatomy & Physiology]]
[[Category:Endocrine System - Anatomy & Physiology]]
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