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Can dogs have Calcium Supplements?

can dogs have calcium supplementsCaution

Overview

dog-food-safety-information

Caution. Calcium supplements are mainly used to resolve calcium deficiency in dogs. If your dog does not have this condition, supplementation is not necessary. Excessive calcium in his bloodstream can cause hypercalcemia, which may contribute to kidney damage.

Benefits

health-benefits
  • Calcium supplements are used to treat calcium deficiency in dogs. Calcium is essential for developing and maintaining strong bones, especially for dogs that require higher calcium demands, such as lactating female dogs and growing puppies.
  • Calcium supplements also help maintain healthy teeth and muscle and nerve function.

Risks

health-risks
  • Over supplementation of calcium in dogs can result in hypercalcemia. The symptoms of this condition include inappetence, kidney stone formation, and in severe cases, kidney failure.
  • Some dogs may experience constipation if given excessive doses of calcium supplements.
  • If large-breed dogs ingest too much calcium supplement, they are at risk of abnormal bone growth and development.
  • Taking calcium supplements can aggravate certain health conditions in dogs, such as kidney disease. If your dog has pre-existing health issues, make sure the vet knows about them.
  • Drug interaction may crop up if calcium supplements are simultaneously taken with certain drugs such as potassium supplements, estrogen, and digoxin.
health-risks-dog

Servings

serving-suggestions
  • Calcium supplements for dogs are available in tablet, capsule, gel cap, or powder form. They can be administered directly by mouth or mixed with food. In some cases, calcium supplements are given to dogs via injection in the hospital setting.
  • Avoid calcium derived from bonemeal as it may contain questionable ingredients. Do the same with calcium sourced from corals since it contributes to environmental degradation.
  • The vet may suggest performing certain lab tests to check the effectiveness of the supplement and to monitor your dog’s calcium levels.
  • The recommended calcium intake for adult dogs is 50 mg of calcium for every kilogram of body weight. Consult a vet for the correct dosage based on your dog's weight and health condition.

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