Veterinary information on HYPOCALCEMIA

HYPOCALCEMIA

HYPOCALCEMIA is a condition in which the calcium level is too low in the bloodstream. It also is sometimes called “Eclampsia” or “Milk Fever.”

It can occur in any dog or cat but is most commonly seen in small breed dogs that are either pregnant or nursing a litter. The problem is caused by the increased demands of pregnancy or nursing a litter which require high levels of calcium. As the puppies grow inside the mother, the mother’s body must supply calcium through her bloodstream for the bone growth of the puppies. After birth, calcium is supplied through the milk for the puppies’ nutrition. As each day passes, and the puppies grow, more milk (and therefore more calcium) is required.

If the female has a large litter, it increases the demands for milk production and calcium for the puppies. This condition occurs when the calcium level of the blood is decreased below the minimum levels needed for the health of the female.

Early signs of this condition include nervousness, panting, shivering, and muscle tremors. If not treated at this early stage, the condition progresses to seizures and eventually death. Prompt treatment of this condition is required to prevent death.

Hypocalcemia often recurs in later pregnancies, often much quicker than the first time. Often in a later pregnancy, it will occur before birth of the puppies occurs. IT IS IMPORTANT TO SPAY THESE PETS AFTER THE FIRST EPISODE FOR THE WELL-BEING OF YOUR PET!

Initial treatment of this condition requires IV Calcium to replace what is needed by the female. Follow-up doses of calcium and other drugs are often required.



HYPOGLYCEMIA

HYPOGLYCEMIA is cused when a pet’s blood sugar drops significantly below normal levels. Often a reaction to stress, excitement, or over-activity may be the cause. Very common in small puppies--especially the “toy” breeds.


It may be INHERITED or simply a result of the body’s internal organs developing a

little more slowly than normal.



SIGNS include:

1. Loss of energy.

2. Becomes more quiet than normal.

3. Shivering.

4. Wobbly, cannot stand.

5. Semi-comatose or comatose (sleepy).

6. Subnormal body temperature.

7. “Fainting” spells in older dogs, particularly during exercise.



TREATMENT is by replacement of the blood sugar, by IV Injections of Glucose.

Recovery is usually very rapid.



PREVENTION PRECAUTIONS:



(a) All newly arrived puppies, especially toy breeds, should have honey, light Karo

Syrup daily.

(b) Feed high quality puppy/kitten foods.

(c) Monitor food intake to be sure consuming enough food to meet normal body

requirements.

(d) Monitor pets with vomiting and/or diarrhea very closely.

(d) Notify the Veterinarian if you see any of the following signs:

1. Seizures persist or become more severe.

2. Seizures in the absence of exercise or stress.

3. Your pet drinks more water or urinates more frequently.

4. Your pet begins to lose weight.

For more information contact your local veterinarian or animal emergency clinic. 

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