Eclampsia is an acute, life-threatening disease caused by a decrease in the amount of calcium in the bloodstream. It is seen mostly in small to medium breeds in early lactation, or rarely, in late pregnancy. It occurs due to the loss of the calcium from milk production, poor uptake of calcium by the intestines, or poor nutrition. Symptoms include a change in behavior, restlessness, nervousness, panting, pacing, whining, decrease in maternal instincts, and tetany. (Symptoms of tetany include irritability, drooling, stiffness in gait, loss of coordination, and pain on walking.) Eclampsia may progress within minutes to hours to muscle spasms, inability to stand, fever, increase in heartrate, and seizure-like activity without loss of consciousness. Death may result from respiratory depression or hyperthermia (increase body temperature) resulting in cerebral edema. Diagnosis is made by symptoms, the timing with pregnancy/lactation, and calcium levels in the blood. Treatment should be sought immediately. It is treated by supplying calcium directly into the vein while monitoring for heart rate or rhythm abnormalities and temperature changes. Oral supplements are started after the initial episode is over and the puppies are supplemented with bottle feeding and started on solid food as soon as possible.
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