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Calcium Deficiency in Dogs - Know the Symptoms So You Can Act

  • 01/01/2014

Calcium is not only an essential mineral for humans, but is essential for dogs as well. Calcium is needed for the formation of their bones and teeth, and when they don't get enough they may become deficient. Calcium deficiency in dogs is otherwise known as rickets, or milk fever in pregnant or lactating pooches.

Calcium deficiency in dogs is characterized by the following symptoms including:

* Soft and brittle bones

* Bone deformities

* Hip dysplasia

* Stunted growth in puppies

* Tooth deformities, teeth loss, loose teeth

* Weakened muscles

* Low blood pressure and heart rate

The main cause of calcium deficiency in dogs is when the phosphorus to calcium ratio is off in the body. If there is an overabundance, or shortage of either mineral, calcium-associated problems may develop. This is why it is important to feed your dog a healthy, balanced diet. Dogs who have diets high in meat are more susceptible to calcium deficiency because of their high phosphorus intake. However, it's important to not provide them with a diet too high in calcium because then they will not be getting enough phosphorus.

Some dogs are more susceptible to developing calcium deficiencies especially if they are pregnant, have arthritis or are getting old. If any of these conditions apply to your pet, you may want to visit a veterinarian to check their calcium and phosphorus levels. When it comes to calcium deficiency during pregnancy, it is most commonly seen in small to medium-sized dogs. Pregnant dogs may have different symptoms such as: uncoordination, restlessness, seizures and fevers. It's of utmost importance that you keep an eye out for these types of symptoms, and visit your veterinarian if you see them.

As mentioned above, calcium is very important for bone health in dogs. For this reason, their need for it increases as they age, and/or if arthritis becomes a problem. Old dog health can be compromised if they have arthritis because it affects their ability to move around and enjoy themselves. It also causes pain resulting in appetite loss. Arthritis is quite common in dogs and can sometimes be treated with a calcium supplement, depending on how much calcium your dog ingests from its food.

To determine if your dog is getting enough calcium, you can talk to a veterinarian. You can ask them about Osteo-form, which is a chewable calcium-phosphorus and vitamin supplement that aids in the prevention of dietary deficiency, it also aids in the healing for fractures. It contains vitamins A, D and C-all nutrients helpful with bone formation and maintenance. This supplement can be given to dogs and cats that do not get an adequate amount of phosphorus and calcium from their diet.

To sum it up, calcium deficiency in dogs, old dog health and dog arthritis can all be treated with a healthy, balanced diet with an equal ratio of calcium and phosphorus. Supplements, such as Osteo form, may be considered if a veterinarian determines that your dog does not get enough calcium and phosphorus from its diet.

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