Hypocalcemia Symptoms In Dogs

Calcium is a mineral vital to canine health, but too much or too little can be dangerous. Low blood calcium is classified as hypocalcemia, and although the specific causes of this disorder vary, it occurs in dogs of all ages and can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. The symptoms can range from mild to severe, but proper treatment by a veterinarian can bring your dog back to health.

  1. Neuromuscular symptoms

    • The most common symptom of hypocalcemia is tetany, which is the involuntary tightening of muscles. Muscles depend on calcium for contraction and for the stabilization of nerve cells. A lack of calcium effects the nervous system and muscles, resulting in seizures, loss of movement and lack of coordination. If your dog starts convulsing or experiencing mild twitches or tremors, he could be suffering from low blood calcium.

    Cardiovascular Symptoms

    • The heart depends on calcium, and when levels of calcium are low, the strength of the canine̵7;s heart is effected. Your dog may have a weak pulse or in severe cases, a slow heartbeat, also known as bradycardia, which could result in cardiac arrest. Upon a visit to a veterinarian, changes in the electrocardiogram may also be present.

    Behavior Changes

    • Due to the pain and discomfort caused by hypocalcemia, behavior changes may occur. Keep an eye out for nervousness or aggression that is sudden and not part of a normal behavior pattern. Also take note if your dog looks lethargic, keeps sitting in the corner or appears to posses little or no energy.

    Disorientation

    • Hypocalcemia can cause dogs to become disorientated and/or confused. If your dog is expressing confusion or disorientation, low blood calcium could be the culprit.

    Panting

    • All dogs pant, but take notice if the panting seems to be excessive or not part of your dog̵7;s normal actions.

    Fever

    • A fever, usually 103 degrees or above, can be brought on by hypocalcemia. If your dog̵7;s body feels warmer than usual, a fever may be present. Other symptoms of a fever include shivering, watery eyes, excessive drinking of water, a dull coat and lethargy.

    Cataracts

    • If you see a change in eye appearance, cataracts could be forming. Hypocalcemia can cause cataracts, which make the eye appear cloudy. They can be mild and only effect a portion of the eye, causing blurred vision, or the entire eye can be effected, resulting in loss of sight.