Total protein levels are --- in a dehydrated animal.

Total protein levels are --- in a dehydrated animal.

• A. Unaffected
• B. Decreased
• C. Increased
• D. Variable

Answer: (C)

When an animal is dehydrated, the blood becomes more concentrated because fluid is lost from the intravascular space. This hemoconcentration increases the concentration of plasma proteins, so the measured total protein rises. It’s about concentration per volume, not a sudden creation of more protein. If rehydration occurs, the value can return toward normal as plasma volume expands. So the best answer is that total protein levels are increased in dehydration.

When an animal is dehydrated, the blood becomes more concentrated because fluid is lost from the intravascular space. This hemoconcentration increases the concentration of plasma proteins, so the measured total protein rises. It’s about concentration per volume, not a sudden creation of more protein. If rehydration occurs, the value can return toward normal as plasma volume expands. So the best answer is that total protein levels are increased in dehydration.