⚠️ What Is Eclampsia?

Eclampsia is a life-threatening emergency seen in nursing mothers—especially small breed dogs with large litters. It is caused by severe calcium deficiency (hypocalcemia) as the mother’s body struggles to meet the demands of milk production. Eclampsia can also occur in cats, though it is much less common. 🧬

💥 What Causes Eclampsia?

Calcium is essential for muscle function and blood pressure regulation. During:

• 🐾 Late pregnancy – calcium is used to build puppy skeletons
• 🤱 Birth – uterine contractions use calcium
• 🍼 Lactation – ongoing milk production drains calcium further

Ironically, calcium supplementation during pregnancy increases eclampsia risk because it suppresses the body’s natural hormone signals to regulate calcium. Homemade diets rich in organ meat may also predispose to hypocalcemia. ❌

🔍 Early Signs of Eclampsia

• 😰 Restlessness or anxiety
• 🐾 Panting and pawing at the face
• 🍼 Neglecting the litter or reduced maternal behavior
• 🐕 Weakness or reluctance to stand

Advanced Signs:

• 🤯 Muscle tremors or rigidity
• ⚡ Shaking and uncoordinated gait
• 🌡️ Fever
• 💥 Seizures

These signs typically occur 1–4 weeks after giving birth, when lactation peaks. Immediate veterinary care is critical at this stage. 🚨

🧪 Diagnosis

Your vet will examine your pet and perform bloodwork to confirm low calcium levels. Other findings may include:

• 💓 High heart rate
• 🌡️ Elevated body temperature
• 🔬 Confirmation via serum calcium levels

💉 Emergency Treatment

Once diagnosed, treatment is swift:

• 🔌 IV calcium gluconate to quickly raise blood calcium
• 🫀 ECG monitoring during infusion to avoid heart complications
• 💊 Oral calcium (e.g., Tums) for maintenance
• 🍼 Weaning pups early to reduce lactation stress
• 💊 Anti-seizure meds if tremors or seizures occur

Many pets recover within hours if treated promptly. 🏥

📦 Home Care & Monitoring

Post-treatment, your vet may recommend:

• 💊 Continued calcium supplements for the remainder of lactation
• 🥣 Feeding a high-quality growth or puppy diet
• 🧘 Reducing maternal stress and overexertion
• 👀 Monitoring for relapse over the next 1–3 weeks

📋 Eclampsia Summary Table

🔧 Ask A Vet Can Help

Worried your dog or cat is showing signs of eclampsia? Use the Ask A Vet app to connect with licensed vets for urgent triage advice, treatment guidance, and lactation management support. 🐕💬

🐾 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston

Eclampsia is scary—but preventable and treatable. Avoid calcium during pregnancy, feed a vet-approved growth diet, and be alert during the critical lactation window. Early care saves lives. 💙🍼