What are the common early symptoms of eclampsia?

Common signs include vomiting, frequent trembling, unsteady walking, reduced appetite, or mammary discomfort. If seizures or altered consciousness occur, seek veterinary care immediately.

How will the vet check for eclampsia?

The vet will perform a physical examination and run blood and electrolyte tests; an ECG or imaging may also be carried out if needed, to assess overall condition and identify the likely cause.

What needs to be monitored at follow-up appointments after treatment?

Follow-up visits will monitor serum calcium and other blood markers, track seizure frequency and mammary gland condition, and schedule further tests as recommended by your vet.

What should I do if my nursing dog or cat is vomiting or having seizures?

Record the timing and frequency of symptoms, film an episode, and contact your vet for assessment. If seizures occur or the animal is unable to stand, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

How much do the tests and treatment for this condition usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

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Disease Guide

Eclampsia in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care Guide [2025]

Eclampsia is a common emergency in nursing dogs and cats caused by low blood calcium (hypocalcaemia), leading to muscle spasms and seizures. Prompt intravenous calcium supplementation and adjustment of nursing practices are required; prognosis is generally good.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: Merck, WSAVA

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate emergency care

•Continuous generalized seizures that will not stop
•Sudden complete inability to stand with unresponsiveness
•Repeated vomiting accompanied by signs of dehydration or altered consciousness

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Frequent tremors or brief recurring seizure episodes
•Unsteady gait but still able to walk short distances
•Noticeably decreased appetite or change in water intake

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Dogs and cats in the nursing or postpartum period may suddenly develop acute symptoms, most commonly vomiting, muscle tremors, and seizures, accompanied by changes in appetite and alertness. These signs may be related to low blood calcium (hypocalcaemia) and require close monitoring.

Repeated vomiting or persistent vomiting that cannot be controlled
Diarrhoea or loose stools with signs of dehydration
Unsteady gait, difficulty walking or standing
Frequent trembling or involuntary seizures
Mammary gland tenderness or abnormal milk production
Elevated body temperature with noticeable lethargy and weakness

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Continuous full-body seizures or severe trembling
⚠️ Sudden complete inability to stand with no visible response
⚠️ Vomiting accompanied by obvious dehydration or altered consciousness

02How to assess your pet at home? Key observation tips and when to seek emergency care

Keeping detailed records at home helps your vet quickly assess the condition and its progression. Record the timing and frequency of symptoms in an organised way.

Record the frequency, timing, and whether vomit contains blood
Note the consistency, frequency, and presence of blood in stools
Film gait disturbances or seizure episodes on your phone and note the time
Record the frequency and duration of each trembling or seizure episode
Monitor changes in appetite, water intake, and overall alertness
List all current medications and supplements to share with your vet
If symptoms worsen, arrange a clinic visit or emergency assessment as soon as possible

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common examination steps

Upon arrival, the vet will use systematic examinations and laboratory tests to evaluate the cause, severity, and potential complications, and determine the next steps in treatment.

Physical examination

assessing pulse, respiration, mammary glands, and neurological reflexes

Blood tests

complete blood count and biochemistry panel to assess organ function

Serum calcium and electrolyte panel to confirm electrolyte imbalances

Urinalysis

evaluating the degree of dehydration and kidney function

ECG and vital sign monitoring to assess cardiovascular and respiratory stability

Imaging (X-ray or advanced imaging) to evaluate concurrent or other conditions

Choose a clinic or specialist hospital equipped to handle emergency cases

04How to treat and care for your pet after diagnosis? Medication, diet, and home care guide

After treatment, blood results and clinical symptoms must be monitored, and appropriate home care provided to reduce the risk of relapse and complications.

Attend follow-up appointments as advised to monitor blood and electrolyte levels
Dietary adjustment: offer easily digestible food and ensure adequate hydration
Administer medications on schedule and record effectiveness and any side effects
Monitor the mammary glands and nursing activity to prevent mastitis
Arrange specialist follow-up or further imaging when necessary
Provide a calm home environment and avoid excessive stimulation and strenuous activity

05What to prepare before seeing the vet? Key information to help your vet quickly identify the cause

Note the time symptoms first appeared and how they have progressed

Bring video or photos of vomiting, gait disturbances, or seizure episodes

Prepare a record of food intake and bowel movements over the past 24 hours

List all current medications and supplements

If nursing, bring records related to the postpartum period and milk production

Consider calling ahead to book or locate a clinic that can handle emergencies

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.