Eclampsia
Also known as: Puerperal hypocalcemia · Milk fever · Puerperaltetanie · Milchfieber · Canine eclampsia · …
Overview
What it is
Eclampsia, also known as postpartum hypocalcemia, is a severe drop in blood calcium levels that affects the nervous and muscular systems of lactating female dogs. This occurs when the mother's body cannot mobilize calcium quickly enough to meet the high demands of milk production. The sudden depletion of calcium disrupts normal nerve and muscle function, leading to life-threatening complications.
How it presents
Owners typically notice symptoms two to four weeks after the mother gives birth, starting with restlessness, panting, and muscle stiffness. As the condition worsens, it progresses to visible muscle tremors, weakness, and potentially seizures.
Treatment
This is an acute medical emergency requiring immediate veterinary care, typically involving intravenous calcium therapy. Once stabilized, the condition is highly treatable, with treatment costs generally ranging from 300 to 1200 EUR.
How it's tested
Bestimmung des Serum-Kalziumspiegels(Serum-Kalzium)
Primary testClinical examDie Diagnose der Eklampsie erfolgt akut durch den Nachweis eines erniedrigten Kalziumspiegels (Hypokalzämie) im Blutserum mittels einer Blutuntersuchung beim Tierarzt.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Eclampsia?
Eclampsia, also known as postpartum hypocalcemia, is a severe drop in blood calcium levels that affects the nervous and muscular systems of lactating female dogs. This occurs when the mother's body cannot mobilize calcium quickly enough to meet the high demands of milk production. The sudden depletion of calcium disrupts normal nerve and muscle function, leading to life-threatening complications.
How is Eclampsia tested?
Tests currently in our database: Bestimmung des Serum-Kalziumspiegels.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.