Eclampsia is an acute, life-threatening disease caused by low calcium levels (hypocalcemia) in dogs and more rarely in cats. The lactating animal is especially susceptible to blood calcium depletion because of lactating. The bodies of some lactating dogs and cats simply cannot keep up with the increased demands for this mineral that they receive from their diet. Please remember that the diet may be fine for these affected individuals, but they lack the ability to quickly shunt calcium to their milk without depleting their own bodies.
Eclampsia is most commonly encountered 1-3 weeks after giving birth, but it can occur anytime, even while pregnant. Litters do not need to be large to cause eclampsia, but usually those bitches producing a lot of milk are at a greater risk, as are dogs of smaller breeds. The puppies themselves are not affected as the mother’s milk appears to be normal during this period.
Signs of eclampsia
Eclampsia is a very serious disorder, but fortunately, the signs are fairly easy to recognize, especially when coupled with the period of lactation. Initially, the affected animal will be restless and nervous. Within a short time, she will walk with a stiff gait and may even wobble or appear disoriented. Eventually, the animal may be unable to walk and exhibit extreme leg rigidity. Body temperature may increase to over 105º F and respiration rates will increase. At this point, death can occur if no treatment is given.
Treatment of eclampsia
If you suspect eclampsia, seek veterinary attention at once and prevent
the puppies from nursing for at least 24 hours. Supplement them with a
commercial milk replacer. A veterinarian can confirm eclampsia with a blood
test to determine blood calcium levels. Eclampsia can be rapidly corrected
by your veterinarian through the use of intravenous calcium supplementation.
The bitch is monitored carefully for heart rhythm irregularities which
can occur.
She will be continued on oral calcium supplements as needed.
If she responds well to treatment, her young can gradually be allowed to nurse.
Prevention of eclampsia
Once a female has had milk fever during a lactation period, there is an
excellent chance that it will repeat with future litters if preventative
steps are not taken.
Supplementation of dietary calcium does not seem to play a large role in
preventing eclampsia. In fact, over-supplementation during pregnancy may
actually cause it. All calcium supplements must be in the proper ratio
with phosphorus. This ratio should be about 1:1 (i.e., 1 part calcium to
1 part phosphorus). In addition, it has been suggested that dog foods high
in soybeans will be high in the plant product phytate. Phytates combine
with calcium and can render the calcium unavailable to the bitch’s body,
and therefore, make her more susceptible to eclampsia. To remedy the problem,
feed diets low in soybean.
In conclusion, it is of great importance for breeders to be able to recognize the signs of eclampsia. If you feel your female is showing these signs, remove the pups to prevent further nursing and seek veterinary assistance at once.