Q: What is ‘milk fever’?

Answer: Occasionally, a queen will show signs of lack of calcium, condition known as eclampsia (puerperal tetany or milk fever). Usually it is seen where there are five or more kittens in the litter and generally it happens two to four weeks after birth, although the sometimes earlier, sometimes latter. The queen has no interest in the kittens, restless and staggers, and won’t eat. Ultimately she will develop muscle spasms and convulsion, accompanied by a high temperature. Prompt veterinary treatment can rapidly reverse these signs.