Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Lactation tetany (hypocalcemic tetany or transport tetany) in mares is a metabolic disorder characterized by acute hypocalcemia and sometimes hypomagnesemia.
It typically affects lactating mares, particularly those under physiological stress, transport, or grazing on lush pastures.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze both statements.
Statement (I) is correct. Affected mares exhibit progressive neuromuscular hyperexcitability.
Early clinical signs include a stiff gait, muscle tremors, flared nostrils, and difficulty walking.
As the condition progresses, the animal becomes highly hypersensitive to external stimuli, such as sudden sounds, touch, or lights.
Physical handling, restraint, or noise can trigger severe tetanic spasms, leading to lateral recumbency, convulsions, and potentially fatal respiratory arrest.
Statement (II) is also correct. Historically, lactation tetany in horses has been most commonly reported in areas where draft horse breeding is widely practiced.
Lactating draft mares, which have high milk yields, have a significant demand for calcium during early lactation (typically 1 to 2 weeks postpartum).
If they undergo additional stress (such as heavy work, transport, or sudden changes in feed), their calcium homeostasis fails, triggering lactation tetany.
Therefore, both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are true.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (A).