Calculate a total shock-dose reference and a selected partial bolus volume for dogs and cats using simple isotonic crystalloid arithmetic. This tool is an arithmetic reference only; it is not a treatment protocol.
Calculation steps will appear here for verification.
A 20 kg dog uses a 90 mL/kg shock-dose reference, and you want to see a 25% partial bolus.
Total shock-dose reference = 20 kg x 90 mL/kg = 1,800 mL
Selected bolus = 1,800 mL x 25% = 450 mL
Bolus equivalent = 90 mL/kg x 25% = 22.5 mL/kg
The practical readback is 450 mL now, with reassessment still deciding whether any later bolus should be considered.
Estimate the answer before revealing it: a 4 kg cat uses a 60 mL/kg reference and you want to view a 50% bolus.
Total shock-dose reference = 4 kg x 60 mL/kg = 240 mL.
Selected bolus = 240 mL x 50% = 120 mL.
Bolus equivalent = 60 mL/kg x 50% = 30 mL/kg.
Last reviewed: May 2026
References: Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, Merck Veterinary Manual, BSAVA Formulary, AAHA Guidelines. Verify against current references before clinical use.