HYPOCALCEMIA
(milk fever, eclampsia, puerperal tetany)

General Information:

Hypocalcemia (milk fever) occurs in female dogs of all breeds, but most frequently in smaller breeds. Females with a heavy milk production and a large litter of actively nursing puppies are most likely to be affected. The exact cause is unknown, but there appears to be an imbalance between calcium uptake from the digestive tract and calcium outflow in milk, bone, urine and feces. Because the level of calcium in the blood is reduced, replacement of calcium is essential. Without prompt treatment, the condition can be fatal.

Milk fever may recur in later pregnancies. Your vet will gladly discuss prevention if you plan to breed your pet again.

Treatment Information:

1. Initial treatment consists of intravenous calcium until signs are relieved.
2. On occasion, calcium supplements may be needed. Give all medication as directed.
3. Diet: CAREFULLY follow your veterinarian's instructions. But until you talk to your vet, feeding the normal diet is fine at this time.
4. Care of puppies: If the puppies are two weeks or older, then they can be slowly introduced to soft food. It will not hurt the mother to allow them to nurse once the signs are alleviated.
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