Comprehensive Care for Pregnant Dogs and Cats: A Guide to Ensuring a Healthy Pregnancy

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   Caring for dogs and cats during pregnancy is an essential part of ensuring the health and development of your pets during this period. Here are some tips on how to care for pregnant dogs and cats safely and effectively:

1.  Bleeding in the first month: Don't worry too much if your pet shows signs of bleeding in the first month of pregnancy, as about 20-30% of pregnant dogs and cats experience this. However, for safety, it's advisable to administer a pregnancy shot and control the bleeding.

2. Proper nutrition: Before bedtime, provide your pet with a glass of goat's milk or unsweetened Vinamilk to maintain their energy levels during sleep.

3.    Hygiene care: Avoid bathing your pregnant pet, as they tend to groom themselves vigorously after a bath, which can induce contractions. Instead, you can use a diluted ginger and water solution to wipe their bodies every 3-5 days.

4.    Supplementing vitamin C: Adding vitamin C to your pet's diet 2-3 times a week can boost their immune system and ensure a strong connection between the mother and her offspring. Use human-grade vitamin C tablets with a dosage of 10mg per kilogram of body weight.

5.  Iron supplementation: If your pet is suffering from anemia, supplementing iron can help. Use iron tablets designed for pregnant women and follow the recommended dosage, typically twice a week with 1-2 tablets depending on the pet's size.

6. Daily gentle exercise: Regular light exercise improves blood circulation and overall health, especially for overweight dogs, reducing the risk of swelling in the hind legs and mammary gland edema.

7.    Supplementing vitamin D: Provide your pet with vitamin D by allowing them to bask in the sun for about 15 minutes a day. Ensure that direct sunlight reaches their body for optimal vitamin D synthesis.

8.   Avoid human calcium supplements: Do not use human calcium supplements as they may have an improper calcium-to-phosphorus ratio and can lead to adverse effects such as brittle bones and constipation.

9. Morning sickness and nutrition: If your pet experiences morning sickness, consider dividing their meals or transitioning to a raw meat diet. You can also supplement with vitamin B1 and B12, either by injection (1 tablet for every 2-4 kilograms into their daily water) or mixed into their food every 3-4-5 days to improve their appetite.

10.Supplementing vitamin B9 for specific breeds: Certain breeds like Phu Quoc and Thai Ridgebacks may benefit from vitamin B9 supplementation for the mother during pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in the puppies.

11. Gentle exercise after 20 days of mating: Maintaining light exercise after 20 days of mating helps support the safe development of the pregnancy.

12.Miscarriage and infertility issues: Seek advice and intervention from a professional veterinarian in cases of miscarriage or infertility.

13.Nutrition after the first month: After the first month of pregnancy, focus on providing calcium to your pet. However, avoid overfeeding to prevent difficulties in giving birth and bladder stones.

14.Proper calcium supplementation: Follow the recommended dosage for calcium supplementation, administer it in the morning, and avoid extended use to prevent bladder stones. From day 40 onwards, switch to a different calcium supplement.

    Remember to monitor the development and health of your pregnant pet and seek assistance from a veterinarian if necessary. Proper care will ensure a healthy pregnancy and successful delivery for your furry companion.

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