Best Times for Cats & Dogs to Supplement Calcium

In most cases, when manufacturers produce cat and dog food, they carefully consider the calcium requirements of both felines and canines, ensuring that their regular diets can meet the normal growth needs of these pets. However, there are certain situations where pet owners should pay extra attention to calcium supplementation for their furry friends:

1. Growth and Development Phase

During the period from weaning to around one year of age, dogs and cats enter a rapid growth phase. A calcium deficiency during this time can lead to issues like double teeth and limb deformities, potentially causing permanent lameness. Larger breeds grow faster and require more calcium, which is often not adequately provided by standard puppy or kitten food.

It's important to note that cats also need sufficient calcium during their growth phase. While dogs generally have higher overall calcium needs, cats require more calcium per kilogram of body weight. Therefore, calcium supplementation is crucial for cats as well during this developmental stage.

2. Pregnancy and Lactation

Female dogs and cats need calcium during pregnancy to support fetal development, as the mother's body absorbs and utilizes calcium and other nutrients in large quantities. A calcium deficiency during pregnancy can lead to osteoporosis and poor fetal development. However, excessive calcium supplementation can cause the fetus to grow too large, potentially leading to dystocia. It is generally recommended to start with a small amount of calcium supplementation about a month before pregnancy.

During the postpartum lactation period, calcium deficiency can cause postpartum tetany. Due to the high calcium loss during milk production, low blood calcium levels can trigger symptoms such as tetany, fever, and depression, which can be lifethreatening in severe cases.

3. Senior Decline Phase

As dogs and cats age, their endocrine and gastrointestinal absorption and conversion abilities weaken, leading to rapid calcium loss and slower calcium metabolism. A calcium deficiency in senior pets can increase the risk of osteoporosis, bone spurs, and fractures. Therefore, pet owners should ensure adequate calcium supplementation for older pets and encourage regular exercise to maintain bone health.

4. Fracture Recovery Phase

Small dogs and cats are prone to fractures in their daily lives. Calcium supplementation during the recovery period can promote bone repair and strengthen bones. However, it is important not to start calcium supplementation immediately after a fracture, as the broken bone releases calcium into the bloodstream. This can place a significant burden on the kidneys. It is advisable to begin calcium supplementation two weeks after the fracture.

For calcium supplementation, we recommend using Puante's highenergy milk calcium tablets, which can provide calcium along with other essential nutrients such as phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin D, ensuring a balanced diet. Additionally, allowing your pets to bask in the sun and increasing their physical activity can enhance bone health. It is crucial not to overdo calcium supplementation for pets. If you are unsure whether your pet is deficient in calcium, consult a veterinarian for a checkup.