Puerperal eclampsia

This pathology can be contracted at the end of pregnancy or at the time of nursing, especially if a large litter is born. It is caused by blood calcium depletion. The organism of a pregnant queen expecting a big litter produces a lot of milk and uses more calcium than usual. Calcium is vital for normal muscle activities, blood coagulation and other functions. If the resources of calcium in the organism are limited and if a feline does not get enough of calcium together with food, the signs of hypocalcemia (eclampsia) start showing: disorientation, derangements in behaviour and muscle tremor. If no treatment is given to restore the levels of calcium, the feline’s health condition rapidly deteriorates, and muscle tremor may turn into heavy clonus. It is a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary attention.