
Seizures in Dogs and Canine Epilepsy
Few events are as terrifying as witnessing your pet in the throes of a full seizure. One second, he looks perfectly normal, and the next, he’s on his side, eyes glazed, muscles twitching frenetically. He may even lose control of his bladder or bowels. A result of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, this episode may last only seconds, but when it happens, time seems to move in slow motion.
For some dogs, this is a one-time experience, but in most cases, seizures recur. If so, and if the abnormal electrical activity is caused by an underlying problem within the brain, the condition is termed epilepsy.
You might think that because epilepsy is fairly common, diagnosis and treatment are straightforward. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Patients often show no signs; diagnostic tests are frequently negative; and, at least initially, the actual seizure events can be few and far between. These factors can contribute to a decision to take a wait-and-see approach, which can lead to problems later on.
It’s important to identify—as much as possible—the underlying cause … Sometimes it’s easy to take the conservative approach, but unfortunately, it can often be a more serious problem. Because there are so many potential underlying causes of seizures, the workup must be step-wise and thorough, a comprehensive attempt to parse the possible culprits: disorders originating within the brain (tumors; viral, bacterial or parasitic infections; strokes; head trauma) from those originating outside the brain. For instance, nutritional deficiencies as well as toxins like lead, insecticides, moldy foods and some human supplements can provoke brain changes that lead to seizures. Additionally, metabolic abnormalities such as liver or kidney disease can cause seizures, and some anesthetic agents and medications may also trigger them in sensitive animals.
The workup starts with a history, including information on vaccinations, diet, exposure to toxins, and the time relationship between seizures and other activities. In most cases, blood chemistry, a complete blood count and urinalysis will help systematically rule out many of the extra cranial causes. If no underlying disease process is found and the animal is between one and five years of age, idiopathic (cause unknown) epilepsy may be diagnosed. If the dog is less than one year of age, it is more likely to have a congenital abnormality, and if it’s older than five to seven years of age, specific disorders of the brain are more common. In turn, these cases (as well as those with difficult-to-regulate idiopathic epilepsy) will require further workup, which may include an MRI and cerebral spinal fluid tap.
Regardless of age and the likelihood of finding idiopathic epilepsy, early treatment is important, because with each seizure, more nerve cells within the brain will begin to fire randomly. The brain’s threshold for seizure may lower on a constant basis. In other words, each seizure makes it more likely that another one will occur. This in turn can make the seizures progressively more difficult to manage.
So, to the bottom line: In general, is, If a dog has had two seizure clusters [two or more seizures occurring over a short period of time, with the dog regaining consciousness in between] in a year, or two or more regular seizures within a six-month period, The dog should receive appropriate diagnostic workup and treatment as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment with anti-seizure medications where indicated are critical to a successful outcome.
What Should You Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure?
If you think your dog is having a seizure, try not to panic. Witnessing a seizure can be emotionally traumatic and extremely stressful. It is important to know that your dog is not suffering while the seizure occurs. In fact, he does not even realize it is happening (because seizures alter consciousness).
There is nothing you can do to stop a seizure. The best thing you can do is to remain calm and try to keep your dog out of danger. The next step you take depends on what you are witnessing.
Before a Seizure Begins
The words "ictal" and "ictus" pertain to the seizure itself. The period before a seizure is called the "pre-ictal phase." Some dogs will begin to act strangely before a seizure begins. They may become anxious or restless. Some will stagger, appear disoriented, or exhibit other abnormal behaviors. The pre-ictal phase usually lasts a few minutes. Other dogs will seem normal until a seizure begins.
If your dog has had seizures before and you think a seizure is coming on, try to move him to a safe, soft area where there are no sharp objects or hard floors. If time allows, you may want to leash your dog and bring him outside on the soft grass (check first for rocks).
How to Protect Your Dog During a Seizure
Move any objects that could fall on your dog or get in the way. Block off stairways and any areas that pose safety threats. You can try to place pillows or blankets around your dog if he appears to be hurting himself, but BE CAREFUL. You should NEVER put your hands or any objects in or near the mouth, as you may be seriously injured. Your dog may bite his tongue, but he will not swallow it. In general, you should steer clear of your dog until the seizure has passed, observing from a safe distance. Most seizures only last about 10-60 seconds.
After the Seizure
The period after a seizure is called the "post-ictal phase." Most dogs will experience exhaustion and confusion. Some will appear sedated. Many dogs experience temporary blindness after a seizure. In fact, all of their senses may be dulled. The post-ictal phase can last minutes to hours. During this time, supervise and comfort your dog. Another seizure may or may not occur.
Is a Seizure an Emergency?
Fortunately, most seizures are not considered life-threatening. However, they do indicate that there is a problem in the brain. If you suspect that your dog has had a seizure, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Depending on the nature of the seizure, you may be instructed to bring your dog in right away.
A seizure lasting more than five minutes is considered an emergency situation. It is imperative that your dog is seen by a vet immediately to prevent brain damage and hyperthermia.
In addition, the occurrence of more than three seizures in a 24 hour period is also an urgent matter that requires a trip to the vet right away.
Finally, if you suspect your dog has been exposed to a toxin, be sure to let your vet know immediately. Some toxins cause seizures in dogs.
If your dog has recurring seizures, keep a log of any seizure-like activity. Describe the nature and length of each phase. Observe how your dog acts in-between seizures. This information may be useful to your vet, who will run diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your dog's seizures.
Managing Seizures in Dogs
In cases where a brain abnormality is identified, treatment options will vary based on specific diagnosis and severity of the disorder. Seizures may occur secondary to brain malformations, brain tumors, inflammation in the brain, or infections.
If the above conditioned are ruled out, it is likely your dog will be diagnosed with epilepsy. Epilepsy is a common cause of seizures in young, otherwise healthy dogs. Fortunately, seizures in epileptic dogs can often be regulated with medications and/or dietary changes. There are several anti-convulsive medications that your vet might use to prevent your dog's seizures.
Most vets will not recommend pharmaceutical treatment if the seizures occur less than once per month, or if they are very mild. As with any medication, these drugs can have side effects. However, if they help control your dog's seizures, you may find that the benefits outweigh the risks. One or more of the following anti-convulsive medications may be prescribed by your vet to control your dog's seizures:
For many dogs, there is a period of trial and error with anti-convulsive therapy. Sometimes, drugs may be combined, adjusted or switched until seizures are regulated. In many cases, lab work must be performed regularly to monitor your dog's response to medication and his overall health.
Never change your dog's medications without specific instructions from your vet. Communication with your vet is essential. It is important that you adhere to your vet's recommendations if you want treatment to be successful.
With care and attention, your dog may be able to live a long, healthy life despite the occasional seizure.
Few events are as terrifying as witnessing your pet in the throes of a full seizure. One second, he looks perfectly normal, and the next, he’s on his side, eyes glazed, muscles twitching frenetically. He may even lose control of his bladder or bowels. A result of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, this episode may last only seconds, but when it happens, time seems to move in slow motion.
For some dogs, this is a one-time experience, but in most cases, seizures recur. If so, and if the abnormal electrical activity is caused by an underlying problem within the brain, the condition is termed epilepsy.
You might think that because epilepsy is fairly common, diagnosis and treatment are straightforward. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Patients often show no signs; diagnostic tests are frequently negative; and, at least initially, the actual seizure events can be few and far between. These factors can contribute to a decision to take a wait-and-see approach, which can lead to problems later on.
It’s important to identify—as much as possible—the underlying cause … Sometimes it’s easy to take the conservative approach, but unfortunately, it can often be a more serious problem. Because there are so many potential underlying causes of seizures, the workup must be step-wise and thorough, a comprehensive attempt to parse the possible culprits: disorders originating within the brain (tumors; viral, bacterial or parasitic infections; strokes; head trauma) from those originating outside the brain. For instance, nutritional deficiencies as well as toxins like lead, insecticides, moldy foods and some human supplements can provoke brain changes that lead to seizures. Additionally, metabolic abnormalities such as liver or kidney disease can cause seizures, and some anesthetic agents and medications may also trigger them in sensitive animals.
The workup starts with a history, including information on vaccinations, diet, exposure to toxins, and the time relationship between seizures and other activities. In most cases, blood chemistry, a complete blood count and urinalysis will help systematically rule out many of the extra cranial causes. If no underlying disease process is found and the animal is between one and five years of age, idiopathic (cause unknown) epilepsy may be diagnosed. If the dog is less than one year of age, it is more likely to have a congenital abnormality, and if it’s older than five to seven years of age, specific disorders of the brain are more common. In turn, these cases (as well as those with difficult-to-regulate idiopathic epilepsy) will require further workup, which may include an MRI and cerebral spinal fluid tap.
Regardless of age and the likelihood of finding idiopathic epilepsy, early treatment is important, because with each seizure, more nerve cells within the brain will begin to fire randomly. The brain’s threshold for seizure may lower on a constant basis. In other words, each seizure makes it more likely that another one will occur. This in turn can make the seizures progressively more difficult to manage.
So, to the bottom line: In general, is, If a dog has had two seizure clusters [two or more seizures occurring over a short period of time, with the dog regaining consciousness in between] in a year, or two or more regular seizures within a six-month period, The dog should receive appropriate diagnostic workup and treatment as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment with anti-seizure medications where indicated are critical to a successful outcome.
What Should You Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure?
If you think your dog is having a seizure, try not to panic. Witnessing a seizure can be emotionally traumatic and extremely stressful. It is important to know that your dog is not suffering while the seizure occurs. In fact, he does not even realize it is happening (because seizures alter consciousness).
There is nothing you can do to stop a seizure. The best thing you can do is to remain calm and try to keep your dog out of danger. The next step you take depends on what you are witnessing.
Before a Seizure Begins
The words "ictal" and "ictus" pertain to the seizure itself. The period before a seizure is called the "pre-ictal phase." Some dogs will begin to act strangely before a seizure begins. They may become anxious or restless. Some will stagger, appear disoriented, or exhibit other abnormal behaviors. The pre-ictal phase usually lasts a few minutes. Other dogs will seem normal until a seizure begins.
If your dog has had seizures before and you think a seizure is coming on, try to move him to a safe, soft area where there are no sharp objects or hard floors. If time allows, you may want to leash your dog and bring him outside on the soft grass (check first for rocks).
How to Protect Your Dog During a Seizure
Move any objects that could fall on your dog or get in the way. Block off stairways and any areas that pose safety threats. You can try to place pillows or blankets around your dog if he appears to be hurting himself, but BE CAREFUL. You should NEVER put your hands or any objects in or near the mouth, as you may be seriously injured. Your dog may bite his tongue, but he will not swallow it. In general, you should steer clear of your dog until the seizure has passed, observing from a safe distance. Most seizures only last about 10-60 seconds.
After the Seizure
The period after a seizure is called the "post-ictal phase." Most dogs will experience exhaustion and confusion. Some will appear sedated. Many dogs experience temporary blindness after a seizure. In fact, all of their senses may be dulled. The post-ictal phase can last minutes to hours. During this time, supervise and comfort your dog. Another seizure may or may not occur.
Is a Seizure an Emergency?
Fortunately, most seizures are not considered life-threatening. However, they do indicate that there is a problem in the brain. If you suspect that your dog has had a seizure, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Depending on the nature of the seizure, you may be instructed to bring your dog in right away.
A seizure lasting more than five minutes is considered an emergency situation. It is imperative that your dog is seen by a vet immediately to prevent brain damage and hyperthermia.
In addition, the occurrence of more than three seizures in a 24 hour period is also an urgent matter that requires a trip to the vet right away.
Finally, if you suspect your dog has been exposed to a toxin, be sure to let your vet know immediately. Some toxins cause seizures in dogs.
If your dog has recurring seizures, keep a log of any seizure-like activity. Describe the nature and length of each phase. Observe how your dog acts in-between seizures. This information may be useful to your vet, who will run diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your dog's seizures.
Managing Seizures in Dogs
In cases where a brain abnormality is identified, treatment options will vary based on specific diagnosis and severity of the disorder. Seizures may occur secondary to brain malformations, brain tumors, inflammation in the brain, or infections.
If the above conditioned are ruled out, it is likely your dog will be diagnosed with epilepsy. Epilepsy is a common cause of seizures in young, otherwise healthy dogs. Fortunately, seizures in epileptic dogs can often be regulated with medications and/or dietary changes. There are several anti-convulsive medications that your vet might use to prevent your dog's seizures.
Most vets will not recommend pharmaceutical treatment if the seizures occur less than once per month, or if they are very mild. As with any medication, these drugs can have side effects. However, if they help control your dog's seizures, you may find that the benefits outweigh the risks. One or more of the following anti-convulsive medications may be prescribed by your vet to control your dog's seizures:
- Phenobarbital
- Potassium Bromide (KBr)
- Zonisamide
- Keppra (Levetiracetam)
- Gabapentin
- Felbamate
For many dogs, there is a period of trial and error with anti-convulsive therapy. Sometimes, drugs may be combined, adjusted or switched until seizures are regulated. In many cases, lab work must be performed regularly to monitor your dog's response to medication and his overall health.
Never change your dog's medications without specific instructions from your vet. Communication with your vet is essential. It is important that you adhere to your vet's recommendations if you want treatment to be successful.
With care and attention, your dog may be able to live a long, healthy life despite the occasional seizure.