Eclampsia in Dogs

Eclampsia is the sudden onset of clinical signs associated with low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia) that occur in lactating (nursing) bitches. It is caused by loss of calcium in the milk and is often combined with poor dietary calcium intake. This condition is different from eclampsia in women, which is related to blood pressure abnormalities prior to birth. 

Predisposing Factors

More common in dogs than cats

Toy and small breeds most commonly affected

Large litter size

Highest incidence with the first litter

Poor nutrition during pregnancy and lactation

Possibly worsened by use of calcium supplements during pregnancy

Seen most commonly two to three weeks after-birth, although can be seen as late as six weeks after whelping (giving birth)

What to Watch for

Restlessness, nervousness

Panting

Stiffness, difficulty walking

Muscle tremors or rigidity

Convulsions

High body temperature

Rapid respiratory rate

Possibly coma and death

Diagnosis

The history and clinical signs are generally very suspicious of eclampsia. A biochemical profile confirms the hypocalcemia. The total serum calcium is usually less than 7 mg/dl. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) may also be found. Rapid response to treatment with intravenous calcium helps to confirm the diagnosis. 

Treatment

Dogs with eclampsia usually require immediate emergency care. The definitive treatment involves returning blood calcium levels to normal and decreasing calcium loss from the body, which may include weaning and hand feeding the puppies. Treatment usually includes:

Intravenous calcium (calcium gluconate) given very slowly 

An intravenous or oral dextrose solution to increase blood sugar 

Anti-seizure drugs (e.g. Valium®) if seizures are unresponsive to calcium and dextrose

Cooling of patients with severely elevated body temperatures

Removal and hand raising of all puppies 

Oral calcium supplementation when the patient is stable 

Oral vitamin D supplementation to increase the absorption of calcium in the intestines 

Home Care

Administer all medications as prescribed by your veterinarian.

Unless told otherwise, do not allow newborns to nurse after an episode of eclampsia.

Follow your veterinarian's recommendations regarding feeding the newborns.

Return to your veterinarian to have calcium levels monitored as prescribed.

Preventative Care

The best way to prevent eclampsia is to avoid calcium supplementation during pregnancy and to feed the pregnant bitch a well-balanced, good quality food. Supplementation of the bitch with calcium may be helpful once the puppies are delivered and are beginning to nurse. Supplemental feeding of the puppies may also be beneficial, especially for large litters.