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Seizures in dogs are more common than you might think, with about 5% of all dogs experiencing them. These episodes are often a result of abnormal brain activity. As a dedicated pet owner, it's crucial to recognize the signs, understand the causes, and know the appropriate actions to take. This guide provides a thorough overview of canine seizures, from symptoms and types to diagnosis and treatment.
Dive in to ensure you're well-equipped to support your furry friend!
What Causes Seizures in Dogs?
Dogs can experience seizures due to factors such as idiopathic epilepsy, brain infections, metabolic imbalances, exposure to toxins, and brain tumors or lesions. Here’s a breakdown of each cause of canine seizures:
Idiopathic epilepsy
Idiopathic epilepsy is a genetic disorder that commonly causes dogs to have seizures. This means that dogs with a family history of epilepsy may be more likely to develop this condition.
Infections or inflammations
Infections or inflammations in the brain, such as meningitis or encephalitis, can alter brain functioning and lead to abnormal electrical activity, eventually causing seizures.
Metabolic or electrolyte imbalances
These conditions, including low blood sugar and calcium levels, are another factor that can impact the brain’s function and cause a seizure.
Poisoning or toxicity
Common toxins that can cause a dog to have a seizure include pesticides, medications, and household chemicals.
Brain tumors or lesions
Tumors or lesions in the brain can affect brain functioning and lead to abnormal electrical activity that triggers seizures.
Signs & Symptoms of Seizures in Dogs
If your dog is having a seizure they may show certain signs, such as:
- Muscle spasms or tremors: During a seizure, your dog may experience involuntary muscle spasms or tremors that can affect their entire body or just certain parts of their body, such as the legs or head. These spasms or tremors can be violent and cause the dog to shake uncontrollably.
- Lack of awareness or consciousness: Dogs may seem dazed and unresponsive to their owner's touch or voice in addition to losing consciousness.
- Drooling or foaming at the mouth: When a dog has a seizure, they may drool excessively or foam at the mouth.
- Paddling or jerking of the limbs: Increased activity in the brain’s motor neurons that control movement during a seizure can cause a dog to paddle or jerk their limbs, exhibiting signs of involuntary rigidity.
If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to schedule a neurological examination with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis & treatment.
Types of Seizures in Dogs
Dogs can experience various seizure types, ranging from full-body episodes to localized symptoms, multiple occurrences in a row, or extended seizures without recovery, some of which can be life-threatening.
Here are four different types of seizures in canines:
Grand mal seizures
Dogs are most likely to have grand mal seizures, which are accompanied by these symptoms:
- Loss of consciousness
- Convulsions
- Stiff limbs
- Uncontrollable shaking
Focal seizures
This type of seizure is often referred to as a partial seizure because it only impacts one part of the brain. This causes abnormal movements in one limb or side of the body.
Cluster seizures
Two or more seizures in a row are known as cluster seizures. These seizures can be particularly dangerous and you should contact your vet immediately.
Status epilepticus
When a puppy has a seizure that lasts longer than five minutes or many seizures without regaining consciousness, it's known as status epilepticus. This condition can cause permanent brain damage or even be fatal if left untreated.
Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
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Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
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How Are Dog Seizures Diagnosed?
During the diagnostic process, the veterinarian may perform:
- Physical examination
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Neurological examination and/or consultation
- Brain imaging (MRI, CT)
Treatment for Dog Seizures
Dog seizure treatment options include:
- Anticonvulsant seizure medicine: The most common treatment for dog seizures is anticonvulsant medication.
- Dietary changes and supplements: For example, a ketogenic (low carb, high fat) diet has been shown to significantly reduce the frequency of dog seizures.
- Alternative therapies: Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and chiropractic care, are additional options that can be used to treat seizures in dogs.
- Surgery or radiation therapy: In the most serious cases, a dog will need to have surgery to treat the underlying cause of their seizures.
What to Do (and Not to Do) When a Dog Has a Seizure
If your dog is having a seizure:
- Stay calm, as your composure is crucial for your dog's safety.
- Protect your dog by placing a soft towel or blanket underneath them to prevent injury.
- Never put your hands near their mouth; they might bite inadvertently.
- Time the seizure to help your vet determine the cause.
- Always contact a veterinarian after a seizure.
Avoid the following:
- Restraining the dog or trying to stop the seizure.
- Offering food or water immediately.
- Assuming your dog is back to normal right away.
- Ignoring the seizure.
How to Prevent Dog Seizures
While there’s nothing you can do to prevent some types of dog seizures, there are some measures that pet parents should know about to help reduce the risk of dog seizures, such as:
- Ensure your dog takes prescribed medication and has regular vet checkups.
- Help them avoid known seizure triggers, like stress or specific foods.
- Removing potential hazards from your home
BetterVet Can Help
If your dog displays symptoms of seizures, taking immediate action is essential. At BetterVet, we stress the significance of early detection and intervention. Our experienced veterinarians are here to guide you, answer your questions, and provide expert advice specific to your dog's condition.
Don't delay; schedule a pet neurological examination with us today to safeguard your dog's health and ensure a bright future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my dog be fine after a seizure?
Many dogs will recover fully after a seizure, although it may take some time for them to regain their balance and normal behavior. It’s important to monitor your dog closely after a seizure and seek veterinary care if necessary.
What dog breeds are more prone to seizures?
Breeds more susceptible to seizures include Basset Hounds, Collies, German Shepherds, Australian Shepherds, and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
What can I give my dog after a seizure?
You shouldn't give your dog anything until you speak to the vet.
