Quote:
Originally Posted by Yorksmama  I was just wondering what most breeders give their pregnant Yorkies and when they start giving it to them. My vet recommends Nutri Cal supplement beginning on day 30. Especially for those carrying multiple pups. He said otherwise she would be deprived of calcium and start shaking and have convulsions after having the pups. Do you agree?  |
I have to say I do not agree and here's why:
Calcium is stored in the bones and released by the parathyroid.
If calcium is given during pregnancy the parathyroid often gets lazy, it figures there is plenty of calcium and it doesn't do it's job. Calcium is the fuel that makes muscles contract so if the parathyroid is being lazy than the mom will have a hard time producing contractions that are strong enough to get the puppies born. A lack of calcium (because the parathyroid is not working) will also cause eclampsia during nursing. By only giving extra calcium when the moms need it (during nursing) you keep the parathyroid on it's toes. When the body calls for extra calcium the parathyriod will have it released from the bones.
Don't get me wrong there are times when a few weeks before they whelp some females need the calcium suppliment, but I don't believe in giving it till it is needed. You do have to watch females that have larger litters more closely for low calcium.