Should puppies or kittens be given additional calcium or mineral supplements?
Calcium excess in puppies has been associated with the development of significant skeletal abnormalities. Although not reported as a problem in kittens, calcium supplementation should always be done cautiously and under the direct supervision of a veterinarian. Calcium deficiency is a common problem in kittens and puppies fed all meat or home-prepared diets without appropriate supplementation. In general, young puppies have an impaired ability to regulate their calcium absorption. This ability to regulate calcium absorption does not develop until the puppy reaches at least ten months of age. Smaller breeds of dogs appear to be less sensitive to slight imbalances in calcium level than large and giant breeds of dogs. Calcium excess may be associated with the development of orthopedic problems (including canine hip dysplasia) in susceptible breeds. Because of the risks associated with both calcium excess and calcium deficiency, supplementation should only be given under the guidance of a
