Calcium Gluconate for Your Dog

Just like humans, animals need many of the same nutrients to grow fit, healthy and strong. One of the essential ingredients needed is calcium. Calcium plays a vital role in bone growth, teeth formation, and preventing clotting. If your pet is lacking in calcium, they have a condition known as hypocalcemia. This is a condition that needs treating promptly or your pet could be in real danger. Thankfully, this is where calcium gluconate comes into play. Usually injected and used to treat hypocalcemia, it looks to increase the plasma calcium levels in your pet. This article will explain exactly what calcium gluconate is used for, how it works, and how you go about using it.

When Does My Dog Need Calcium Gluconate?

Calcium gluconate is used specifically to treat calcium deficiency (hypocalcemia). Is your dog twitching or trembling? Do they appear uncoordinated and stiff? Are they vomiting or displaying fever-like symptoms? These could all be signs your dog is suffering from hypocalcemia.

Not only does hypocalcemia affect your dog’s ability to grow bones and teeth, but it also affects the efficacy of muscles and the heart, plus your pet’s vision. If you begin to suspect your pet is suffering from hypocalcemia, seek advice from your local vet promptly.

How Does Calcium Gluconate Work?

Calcium gluconate is the water-soluble calcium salt of gluconic acid. It can be administered in a number of ways, but it is usually injected into your pet. But how exactly does it work?

An eloquent 2002 piece from The Journal of Chemical Thermodynamics highlighted the numerous benefits of calcium gluconate. It directly increases the plasma calcium levels in your pet. That injected calcium bolsters the efficacy of the cell messenger systems. It then gets to work improving muscle contractions, preventing your dog’s limbs and muscles from becoming stiff. Calcium also helps regulate the secretory activity of your pet’s exocrine glands. So the extra calcium will go a long way to improving the overall health and functionality of your pet’s organs and limbs.

How Do I Go About Giving My Dog Calcium Gluconate?

If your dog has displayed any of the symptoms mentioned above, the first thing you need to do is consult your local vet. They will be able to diagnose hypocalcemia and then advise you on how calcium gluconate will be administered and in what quantities.

Your dog will likely start on an injected form of calcium gluconate, usually administered by your vet, to begin with. Once your dog’s symptoms have started to decrease, your vet will likely suggest changing to an oral form of calcium gluconate. You will be advised to supplement your dog’s meals with the tablets each day. The tablets can be purchased with ease from a range of stores or from the vet directly.

The Calcium Conclusion

Your dog’s body needs calcium for a variety of bodily functions. Calcium is needed for bones and teeth to grow strong. Your pet’s heart needs calcium in order to function effectively, as do the eyes. If your pet has a calcium deficiency, they will start to display the symptoms of hypocalcemia highlighted above. Thankfully, calcium gluconate can be administered to bolster your pet’s calcium levels and return their body to full functionality. For further information and guidance on using calcium gluconate, consult your local vet.