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Eclampsia in Cats

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What is eclampsia?

Eclampsia, also referred to as hypocalcemia or puerperal tetany, is an emergency medical condition associated with a life-threatening drop in blood calcium levels that occurs in nursing mothers. Eclampsia most often occurs when the kittens are one to four weeks of age and the mother is producing the most milk. It can also occur before giving birth.

What causes eclampsia in cats?

The cause of eclampsia is often undetermined, but may be due to:

  • Excessive loss of calcium from the mother to the developing fetal skeletons
  • Calcium supplementation during pregnancy
  • Producing milk after birth
  • Not receiving a balanced, premium growth and development diet while pregnant and nursing
  • A hormonal problem with the parathyroid gland

Mothers that are especially attentive to their kittens or are nursing a large litter seem to be more likely to develop eclampsia. Fortunately, this condition is uncommon in cats.

What are the clinical signs of eclampsia in cats?

The signs of eclampsia are initially subtle and non-specific. The female may be lethargic, not eating well, trembling, or may show muscle spasms (tetany), affecting the whole body. The cat may also look pale (visible in her gums), have a low body temperature, have trouble breathing, or be breathing rapidly. The heart rate can also become slower.

Eclampsia is a true medical emergency. If you suspect eclampsia is developing, prevent the kittens from suckling and contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is eclampsia treated?

Treatment involves intravenous fluids and injections of calcium and other medications, depending on physical examination and laboratory test results. Intravenous calcium must be administered very carefully and slowly or it can cause severe lowering of the heart rate and arrhythmias. Some cats require anti-seizure drugs such as diazepam (Valium®) to control seizures and tetany.

Follow-up care typically involves oral calcium supplements (something as simple as Tums® may be recommended) and weaning the kittens as quickly as possible. If eclampsia is diagnosed and treated promptly, recovery is usually rapid and complete.

Can eclampsia be prevented?

To help prevent eclampsia, all pregnant cats should be fed a high-quality diet formulated for pregnant and nursing mothers that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. If the mother is at risk, the kittens may need to be separated from her a few times per day, allowing her to eat. The kittens can be supplemented with a milk replacer and transitioned to kitten food at three to four weeks of age.

Calcium supplementation or feeding dairy to pregnant and nursing cats is generally not recommended. Excessive calcium intake during pregnancy or nursing can suppress parathyroid hormone production and increase the risk of developing eclampsia. Your veterinarian can help you determine if your cat needs supplementation.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Jun 13, 2025.