Seizures can be alarming for any pet owner. They occur when there is sudden, uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain, leading to changes in behavior, movement, or consciousness. Both dogs and cats can experience seizures, and understanding the causes, signs, and emergency care is essential for keeping your pet safe. At Killarney Animal Hospital, we provide guidance and treatment for pets experiencing seizures.
Common Causes of Seizures in Pets
Seizures in dogs and cats can have various causes, ranging from genetic predisposition to environmental factors. Common causes include:
- Idiopathic Epilepsy: Often hereditary, especially in certain dog breeds, and is diagnosed when no other underlying cause is found.
- Brain Tumors or Trauma: Tumors, head injuries, or strokes can trigger seizures.
- Infections: Conditions such as meningitis or viral infections may affect the brain and cause seizures.
- Metabolic Disorders: Low blood sugar, liver disease, or kidney failure can disrupt brain function.
- Toxin Exposure: Ingesting certain medications, plants, or chemicals can provoke seizures.
Recognizing the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment and management.
Signs of Seizures
Seizure activity can vary in duration and intensity, but common signs include:
- Uncontrolled shaking or convulsions
- Loss of consciousness or disorientation
- Drooling, foaming at the mouth, or chomping motions
- Sudden collapse or stiffness
- Paddling movements with legs
- Vocalizations such as barking, meowing, or crying
Some pets may exhibit subtle pre-seizure behaviors, known as the aura phase, including restlessness, whining, or hiding.
Emergency Care During a Seizure
If your pet experiences a seizure, it’s important to remain calm and follow these steps:
- Ensure Safety: Move your pet away from stairs, sharp objects, or water. Do not try to restrain them.
- Time the Seizure: Note the duration. Most seizures last 1–2 minutes, but longer episodes require immediate veterinary attention.
- Do Not Put Anything in Their Mouth: Pets will not swallow their tongue, and placing objects can cause injury.
- Provide Comfort Afterward: Pets may be disoriented or anxious after a seizure. Offer a calm, quiet space to recover.
- Seek Veterinary Care: Contact your veterinarian immediately, especially if seizures are prolonged, repeated, or if it’s your pet’s first episode.
Long-Term Management
Pets with recurrent seizures may require ongoing treatment to reduce frequency and severity. Management strategies may include:
- Medications: Anti-seizure medications tailored to your pet’s condition can help control episodes.
- Regular Monitoring: Keeping a seizure diary with dates, duration, and symptoms can assist your veterinarian in adjusting treatment.
- Addressing Underlying Causes: Treating metabolic issues, infections, or toxin exposure can prevent further seizures.
With proper care, many pets with seizure disorders live happy and active lives.
Seizures in dogs and cats can be frightening, but understanding the causes, recognizing the signs, and knowing how to respond during an episode can save lives. Early veterinary intervention and ongoing management are key to helping pets with seizure disorders thrive.
For evaluation, treatment, or guidance on seizures in your pet, contact Killarney Animal Hospital at (604) 433-5500.
