Symptoms of Canine Rickets: Identifying Early Signs

Section 1: Causes of Canine Rickets

1. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of vitamin D, are the primary causes of rickets in dogs.

2. Insufficient calcium and phosphorus, or an imbalance between the two, as well as hypoparathyroidism, are significant contributing factors to the disease.

3. Dogs with urinary system disorders, such as kidney failure or inherited defects, may have an increased demand for vitamin D, making them more susceptible to rickets.

4. Overpopulation of intestinal parasites can interfere with the absorption of calcium, vitamins, and proteins, potentially triggering rickets.

Section 2: Clinical Manifestations of Canine Rickets

Rickets can be diagnosed by examining the dog's age, the gradual onset of symptoms, skeletal deformities, and Xray results. Serum calcium and phosphorus levels can further aid in diagnosis. A diagnosis of rickets is confirmed if blood calcium levels are below 9.8% and blood phosphorus levels are below 2.5%.

Early symptoms may include pica, such as eating dirt, sand, or plastic bags, and occasionally licking the abdomen of other animals.

Due to stiffness and lameness, especially in the hind limbs, dogs may walk with a crouched posture, exhibiting an Oshaped or Xshaped gait. Deformed bones, swelling at the ends of the knees, wrists, and ankles, and a doublejointed appearance are common.

Swelling at the junction of ribs and costal cartilage, a sunken sternum, curved vertebral bones, a narrowed pelvis, and the deformation of trunk and limb bones can lead to a dwarflike skeletal structure in the dog.

Swelling of the maxilla, a narrowed mouth, and difficulty breathing or chewing may also be observed.

Section 3: Prevention and Treatment Measures for Canine Rickets

1. Ensure your dog maintains good hygiene and has access to ample sunlight.

2. Allow your dog to engage in moderate exercise, get plenty of sunlight, and adjust their diet to ensure adequate vitamin D and mineral intake.

3. Administer vitamin D supplements such as cod liver oil, 510 milligrams once daily. Discontinue use if diarrhea occurs to prevent excessive vitamin D intake.

4. Add calcium supplements to your dog's feed, with puppies receiving 1.5 to 2 grams once daily, for 1 to 2 months.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on canine skeletal health, click here to read about emergency treatment methods for bone fractures.