Hypoglycemia and ketosis in a pregnant bitch

Abstract

A four-year-old female Afghan hound in near-term gestation presented for dystocia. On presentation the patient had dull mentation, a low body condition score (2.5/9) and was unable to ambulate. The patient had delivered two pups before presentation and on physical examination a palpable pup in the vagina. Fetal heart rates were measured with transabdominal ultrasound and fetal bradycardia was observed (measured between 155-190 beats per minute). A cesarean section was indicated. Clinical pathology showed a marked hypoglycemia (2.1mmol/L), ketonemia and lymphopenia. Urinalysis showed hypersthenuria, ketonuria, mild proteinuria and bilirubinuria. Dextrose 50% was administered parenterally at 1g/kg and isotonic fluid therapy was commenced. The patient was anaesthetized and a routine cesarean was performed. Prior to discharge the patient had normal mentation, was eating, ambulatory and blood glucose was 8.8mmol/L. A catabolic energy state for a bitch in late gestation may result in hypoglycemia, ketonemia and ketonuria. Inappropriate energy balance throughout the periparturient period may be detrimental to both the bitch and her pups.