Nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism

Diets low in calcium or with excess phosphorus drive sustained overactivity of the parathyroid glands, which strip calcium from bone to maintain blood levels. The result is weak, demineralized bone, deformities, and fractures, a major problem in reptiles, all-meat-fed cats and dogs, and horses on grain-heavy diets. The condition is reversible with dietary correction if caught early.