Mohan.K1, Bharath Kumar Reedy.G1, Javeed. Md1, Jevya.M2, Athidi Lokavya Reddy. G3*1Internee Student, CVSc, Korutla, PVNRTVU, Hyderabad 2Assistant Director, DVAH, Mahbubnagar3Assistant Professor, Department of Veterinary Clinical Complex, CVSc Korutladoi.org/10.5281/IndianVetMagazine.23240252
Eclampsia, also known as puerperal tetany or postpartum hypocalcaemia, is an acute metabolic emergency primarily affecting lactating bitches. It develops when the calcium demand associated with milk production exceeds the mother’s ability to maintain adequate circulating calcium, particularly during peak lactation. Reduced ionized calcium increases neuromuscular excitability, resulting in restlessness, panting, muscle tremors, stiffness, tetany, hyperthermia and, in severe cases, seizures and death. Diagnosis is based on history, clinical signs and measurement of serum calcium, preferably ionized calcium. Immediate veterinary intervention is essential, with slow intravenous calcium gluconate administered under careful cardiovascular monitoring being the primary treatment. Prevention involves providing a complete and balanced diet, avoiding indiscriminate calcium supplementation during pregnancy, closely monitoring high-risk bitches during peak lactation and reducing excessive lactational demand when necessary.