Patients Parameters
Composition of commonly used IV fluid formulations
Solution Na+ (mEq/L) Cl– (mEq/L) K+ (mEq/L) Mg2+ (mEq/L) Ca2+ (mEq/L) Dextrose (g/L) Organic Anion (mEq/L) pH Osmolarity (mOsm/L)
Hypertonic
7.2% NaCl 1,232 1,232 0 0 0 0 0 5.0 (4.5-7) 2,464
3.0% NaCl 513 513 0 0 0 0 0 5.0 (4.5-7) 1,027
Isotonic
0.9% NaCl 154 154 0 0 0 0 0 5.0 (4.5-7) 308
LRS 130 109 4 0 2.7 0 Lactate 28 6.5 275
Plasma-Lyte A 140 98 5 3 0 0 Acetate 27
Gluconate 23
7.4 294
Sterofundin ISO 145 127 4 2 5 0 Acetate 24
Malate 5
5.5-5.9 309
Normosol-R 140 98 5 3 0 0 Acetate 27
Gluconate 23
5.5 294
Plasma Lyte-148 140 98 5 3 0 0 Acetate 27
Gluconate 23
5.5 294
Hypotonic
0.45% NaCl 77 77 0 0 0 0 0 5.6 154
Plasma Lyte 56 in 5% dextrose 40 40 13 3 0 5 Acetate 16 3.5-6 363
0.45% NaCl + 2.5% dextrose
2.5% dextrose
77 77 0 0 0 25 0 4.5 280
0.2% NaCl + 5% dextrose
5% dextrose
34 34 0 0 0 50 0 4.4 320
D5W 0 0 0 0 0 50 0 4.0 252

About this calculator

This calculator is designed to help veterinarians calculate a total fluid rate in small animal patients based on their body weight, degree of dehydration and anticipated ongoing losses (e.g. vomiting, diarrhea, polyuria, panting, etc).

The maintenance fluid rate is calculated based on the following formula: 70*BW(raised to the power of 0.75)

VETEMCRIT ACADEMY

VetEmCrit Academy is dedicated to providing veterinarians with cutting-edge resources and evidence-based tools for managing electrolyte and acid-base disorders. Whether you’re treating common electrolyte imbalances or tackling complex cases, VetEmCrit Academy offers guidance that helps clinicians progress from novice to expert. With practical tools like this calculator and case-based learning, the academy supports continuous education and improved patient care.

Disclaimer

This veterinary calculator is intended for informational and educational purposes only.

The creator of this tool is not responsible for clinical decisions or medical errors resulting from its use.

Users are encouraged to consult with a licensed veterinarian or medical professional to make informed decisions.