⚠️ Vet Advice 2025: Eclampsia in Dogs and Cats – Warning Signs Every Pet Parent Should Know 🐾🍼

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

🧬 What is Eclampsia?

Eclampsia, also called puerperal tetany, is a dangerous drop in calcium levels that affects nursing mothers, most often seen in small-breed dogs with large litters. Cats can also be affected, but it's rare. This life-threatening condition is most common from late pregnancy to 4 weeks postpartum — the peak period for milk production 🍼.

⚠️ Ironically, supplementing calcium during pregnancy increases the risk of eclampsia. Instead, calcium should only be supplemented after birth and under veterinary guidance.

🔍 Early Signs of Eclampsia

Calcium is vital for nerve, muscle, and cardiac function. When levels drop too low, severe signs develop quickly. Know what to watch for:

• 😰 Panting or rapid breathing
• 😟 Restlessness or agitation
• 🐾 Pawing at the face
• 🍼 Ignoring puppies or kittens

🚨 Advanced Symptoms

• 🌀 Muscle tremors and shaking
• 🐾 Difficulty walking or collapse
• ⚡ Seizures (in severe cases)

📆 Timing matters: Eclampsia often occurs 2 to 4 weeks after birth when lactation demand is highest and the mother's calcium stores are depleted.

💉 Diagnosis and Veterinary Testing

If you notice any signs above, bring your pet to a veterinarian immediately. Diagnosis includes:

• 📋 Full physical examination
• 🧪 Blood tests (confirming low ionized calcium)
• ❤️ Possible ECG to monitor heart rate during treatment

⚠️ A high heart rate, muscle stiffness, and fever may also be present.

💊 Treatment and Recovery

Veterinary treatment for eclampsia is urgent and involves:

• 💉 IV calcium gluconate to quickly stabilize calcium levels
• 🧘‍♀️ Sedation if needed for seizures or tremors
• 🏡 Calcium supplements sent home for daily use (e.g., Tums or veterinary-grade tablets)

🍼 Weaning Strategy

To reduce further calcium loss, weaning puppies or kittens as early as safely possible is essential. Offer a milk replacer to the litter while supporting the mother with high-calcium diets and reduced nursing demand.

📈 What to Expect After Treatment

• ⏱️ Most pets recover within a few hours once calcium is restored
• 📅 Monitor for recurrence — repeat episodes are possible during lactation
• 🧠 Watch for behavior changes, tremors, and milk production levels

🧴 Prevention Tips

• ❌ Don’t supplement calcium during pregnancy unless directed by your vet
• ✅ Use a complete and balanced growth diet during pregnancy and lactation
• 🏥 Schedule a postpartum check-up at 2 weeks
• 🧪 Be ready with calcium supplements after birth if your pet had eclampsia previously

👶 Who's at Highest Risk?

⚠️ These groups are especially vulnerable:

• 🧸 Toy breeds (e.g., Chihuahuas, Yorkies, Maltese)
• 🐶 Small dogs with large litters
• 🍖 Pets on home-cooked, organ-rich diets
• 🔁 Pets with a previous eclampsia diagnosis

💡 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston

Eclampsia is preventable, treatable, and serious. Stay informed and be proactive during and after pregnancy. Watch for warning signs, support mom with proper nutrition, and seek immediate help if she seems unwell during lactation.

Download the Ask A Vet app to connect with professionals like Dr Duncan Houston for instant support during your pet’s pregnancy or postpartum phase 📱🐾.