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Symptoms of calcium deficiency in cats
Calcium deficiency in cats mainly manifests as involuntary shivering and seizures, incomplete bone development, slow growth, crooked teeth, and loss of appetite. Secondly, because cats are naturally fond of jumping and climbing, calcium deficiency may lead to osteoporosis, resulting in poor jumping performance and a higher risk of fractures during jumping. Additionally, postpartum calcium deficiency occurs commonly in female cats after childbirth, with clinical symptoms such as drooling and seizures. In this case, it is necessary to take the cat to a pet hospital for fluid therapy as soon as possible.
- Involuntary shivering and seizures
When a cat is deficient in calcium, it may experience involuntary shivering and seizures, especially in newly-postpartum cats. If this happens, calcium supplementation should be provided promptly.
- Incomplete bone development
When a cat is deficient in calcium, bone development may be incomplete, leading to reduced activity, lack of willingness to walk or jump, and even diseases such as rickets or cartilage disease, and paralysis.
- Slow growth
Long-term calcium deficiency in kittens can result in slow growth and poor development, causing the cat to be shorter in size compared to its peers. In this case, providing calcium supplements, exposure to sunlight, and regular exercise can help.
- Crooked teeth
During the teething period, cats need a large amount of calcium. If they are calcium-deficient at this time, it will have a significant impact on tooth growth, leading to issues such as retained deciduous teeth and double rows of teeth.
- Loss of appetite
When cats are deficient in calcium, their digestion may weaken, affecting their appetite and leading to loss of appetite and weight loss. Therefore, it is important to supplement calcium-rich food in their diet.