Seizures In Dogs: What Are Causes And Treatments
Witnessing your dog have a seizure can be a frightening experience. These episodes, characterized by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, affect many canines and can range from mild to severe. Understanding what causes seizures in dogs and how they can be treated is essential for any pet owner. This comprehensive guide will help you recognize the signs, understand potential causes, and know what steps to take if your dog experiences a seizure.
What Is a Seizure in Dogs?
A seizure, also called a convulsion or fit, occurs when there’s abnormal electrical activity in the brain. During a seizure, dogs may lose control of their body movements, experience altered consciousness, and exhibit unusual behavior.
Types of Seizures in Dogs
Seizures in dogs are typically categorized into several types:
1. Generalized (Grand Mal) Seizures: The most common type, affecting the entire brain and causing full-body convulsions.
2. Focal Seizures: Affecting only one part of the brain, resulting in abnormal movements in just one area of the body, such as facial twitching or a single limb paddling.
3. Psychomotor Seizures: Characterized by unusual behavior that lasts a few minutes, such as attacking an invisible object or chasing their tail.
4. Cluster Seizures: Multiple seizures within a 24-hour period.
5. Status Epilepticus: A life-threatening condition where seizures last longer than 5 minutes or occur back-to-back without recovery.
Recognizing Seizure Symptoms in Dogs
Being able to identify when your dog is having a seizure is crucial. Seizures typically progress through three phases:
Pre-Ictal Phase (Aura)
Before a seizure begins, dogs may:
– Show anxiety or restlessness
– Seek attention or isolation
– Whine or bark unusually
– Salivate excessively
Ictal Phase (Active Seizure)
During the actual seizure, symptoms may include:
– Falling to the side and paddling legs
– Stiffening of muscles
– Jaw chomping or teeth clenching
– Loss of consciousness
– Uncontrolled urination or defecation
– Drooling
– Vocalization (whining or barking)
Post-Ictal Phase (Recovery)
After the seizure, dogs may experience:
– Confusion or disorientation
– Temporary blindness
– Excessive hunger or thirst
– Fatigue
– Pacing or restlessness
Common Causes of Seizures in Dogs
Seizures can be triggered by various factors. Understanding the potential causes can help with diagnosis and treatment:
Idiopathic Epilepsy
The most common cause of seizures in dogs is idiopathic epilepsy, an inherited disorder with no identifiable underlying cause. It typically first appears in dogs between 1 and 5 years of age and is more common in certain breeds, including Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Belgian Tervurens, and German Shepherds.
Medical Conditions
Several health issues can trigger seizures:
– Liver disease
– Kidney disease
– Brain tumors
– Stroke
– Encephalitis (brain inflammation)
– Head trauma
– Low or high blood sugar
– Electrolyte imbalances
Toxin Exposure
Exposure to certain toxins can cause seizures, including:
– Pesticides
– Certain medications
– Chocolate
– Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
– Lead poisoning
– Antifreeze
– Some flea and tick products
Environmental Factors
Sometimes seizures can be triggered by:
– Heat exhaustion
– Extreme stress
– Bright or flashing lights
– Loud noises
What to Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure
If your dog experiences a seizure, taking appropriate action is essential:
1. Stay calm and try to note the time the seizure begins.
2. Ensure safety by moving furniture or objects away that could harm your dog.
3. Don’t restrain your dog or put anything in their mouth—contrary to popular belief, dogs cannot swallow their tongues.
4. Time the seizure—most last between 30 seconds and 2 minutes.
5. Cool your dog down if the seizure lasts more than 2 minutes by placing a fan near them or cool (not cold) towels on their paws and abdomen to prevent overheating.
6. Seek emergency veterinary care if:
– The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes
– Your dog has multiple seizures in a row
– Your dog doesn’t regain consciousness between seizures
– It’s your dog’s first seizure
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnostic Procedures
To determine the cause of seizures, veterinarians may perform:
– Complete blood count and chemistry panel
– Urinalysis
– Liver function tests
– CT scan or MRI
– Spinal fluid analysis
– Toxicology screening
Treatment Approaches
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of seizures:
Medication
For dogs with recurring seizures, anticonvulsant medications may be prescribed:
– Phenobarbital: A common first-line medication that suppresses seizure activity in the brain.
– Potassium Bromide (KBr): Often used in combination with phenobarbital for better seizure control, especially effective for dogs with liver issues.
– Levetiracetam (Keppra): A newer anticonvulsant with fewer side effects, sometimes used as add-on therapy.
– Zonisamide: Another newer option that may be effective for dogs that don’t respond well to other medications.
Treating Underlying Conditions
If seizures are caused by an underlying health issue, treating that condition is essential:
– Surgery for brain tumors
– Dietary changes for liver disease
– Medication for infections
Lifestyle Management
Additional steps to manage seizures include:
– Maintaining a consistent daily routine
– Reducing stress
– Regular exercise (but avoiding overheating)
– Consistent feeding schedule
– Avoiding known triggers
Living with a Dog with Seizures
Most dogs with seizure disorders can live normal, happy lives with proper management. Important aspects of care include:
– Medication compliance: Never skip doses or stop medication without veterinary guidance.
– Regular veterinary check-ups: Monitor medication levels and overall health.
– Seizure diary: Keep track of when seizures occur, their duration, and potential triggers.
– Emergency plan: Have a plan in place for after-hours emergencies.
– Quality of life: Focus on providing a good quality of life through proper care, exercise, and attention.
Conclusion
Seizures in dogs can be concerning, but with proper veterinary care and management, most dogs can lead full, healthy lives. Understanding the signs, causes, and treatment options empowers pet owners to provide the best care for their canine companions. If your dog experiences a seizure, remain calm, ensure their safety, and seek veterinary attention—especially for first-time seizures or severe episodes. With the right approach, you and your veterinarian can work together to minimize seizures and maintain your dog’s quality of life.