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Aparato reproductor

Eclampsia (lactation tetany)

A dangerous drop in blood calcium in nursing females. The high calcium demand of milk production depletes the mother's reserves. It is a life-threatening emergency.

Veterinary emergency🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

ABSOLUTE EMERGENCY: a nursing female who starts to show tremors, stiffness or seizures needs veterinary attention IMMEDIATELY.

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Restlessness, panting, nervousness
  • • Muscle tremors and stiffness
  • • Wobbly gait, incoordination
  • • Spasms and seizures
  • • High fever
  • • Appears in the first few weeks after giving birth

Causes

Milk production uses up more calcium than the mother can replace. The risk is higher in small females with large litters.

Diagnosis

The clinical picture (a nursing female with tremors) is very indicative. Blood tests confirm the low calcium.

Treatment

EMERGENCY: administration of calcium by the vet, which acts quickly. It is usually necessary to temporarily or permanently remove the offspring from the mother and switch them to artificial feeding.

Prevention

Good nutrition for the mother during pregnancy and lactation, without supplementing calcium unless directed by a vet (it can be counterproductive). Keep a close eye on small females with large litters.

When should you see the vet?

ABSOLUTE EMERGENCY: a nursing female who starts to show tremors, stiffness or seizures needs veterinary attention IMMEDIATELY.

Consult a vet24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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