Jill (Aptos, CA) on 11/21/2007
Replied By Rob (Kentucky) on 02/06/2026
Source: The Merck-Merial Manual for Pet Health- The complete pet. p. 673 by Cynthia M Kahn; Scott Line; Merck & Co.
Defective bone formation is called osteodystrophy. It is caused in most cases by deficiencies or imbalances of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, all of which are important in creating and maintaining strong, healthy bones. The primary source of calcium and phosphorus is the diet, but a number of factors affect how the body absorbs calcium and phosphorus. These include the source of the minerals as well as the levels of vitamin D in the body. Vitamin D is obtained either through the diet or by exposure to sunlight. Because of the role it plays in the body, if the vitamin or its activity is decreased, calcium and phosphorus absorption are reduced. Bone deformities can result, as well as other nutritional and metabolic complications.