Seizures, also called epilepsy, are dogs’ most typical neurological conditions. This can alter how they look and behave. Many pet owners find it frightening to see their favorite pet having seizures, and you may be wondering what you can do to help your terrified furry friend. This article will review the signs of seizures, different types and causes, what to do if your dog has one, and how to treat them.
Discover more about the warning signs that your dog might have a seizure and what to do if you suspect one in this section.
Types of Seizures
There are different types of seizures. Each type might show different symptoms and require different treatment options.
Generalized Seizures
A generalized, also known as grand mal seizure, is the most common type. These may last for a few seconds to a couple of minutes and are commonly caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Dogs usually lose consciousness, fall to the side, have involuntary urination or defecation, excessively drool, and have rhythmic muscle contractions like jerking limbs, paddling, and chewing jaw movements.
Partial Seizures
Partial seizures, also called focal seizures, only affect one side of the dog’s brain or one particular area of the brain. There are two types of seizures: focal motor and psychomotor. In some cases, a focal seizure can develop into a grand mal.
Focal motors are caused by nerve cells in one brain hemisphere firing abnormally and often present as repetitive facial muscle movements or uncontrolled limb jerking.
Psychomotor seizures can be challenging to recognize for dog owners and vets as they typically don’t cause a pet to fall to the ground. Instead, the dog could act oddly during this seizure, like running around and biting at inanimate objects or excessively chasing its tail.
Causes of Dog Seizures
Seizures can have many potential causes, some more severe than others. One or more of the following can lead to seizures or convulsions:
- Poisoning
- Traumatic head injury
- Kidney disease
- Liver problems
- Brain cancer
- Anemia
- High or low blood sugar level
- Brain infection or inflammation
- Stroke
- Hydrocephalus
- Low blood oxygen levels
- Encephalitis
- Vascular disease/Embolism
These are just a few main reasons seizures occur in dogs. A diagnostic examination with your veterinarian at Airport Pet Emergency Clinic is the only method to finding the cause of a seizure.
Signs of Seizures
Numerous signs can help you detect whether your dog is having a seizure or convulsion, including:
- Collapsing
- Jerking bodily movements
- Stiffening
- Muscle twitching
- Loss of consciousness
- Drooling
- Chomping or tongue chewing
- Mouth foaming
- Uncontrolled excreting or urinating
If you notice any of these in your furry friend, do not panic. However, if your dog experiences numerous seizures within a few minutes and does not wake up between them, you must take it to the emergency animal hospital in Blountville immediately.
Seizure Treatments
When it comes to dealing with seizures, your veterinarian may recommend some medications. Depending on your animal companion’s situation, you must also consider some alternative options, including:
- Acupuncture
- Chinese Herbal Formulas
- CBD Oil
- Food Therapy
To successfully treat seizures and eliminate any underlying issues, your dog will have an extensive health examination from your vet, including complete lab work.
Make sure to tell your veterinarian or pet pharmacy doctor about your pet’s medications or supplements. This will help your vet identify the most effective method to treat your pet based on their particular needs and reduce the possibility of a drug interaction.
Bottom Line
It’s never fun to look at your dog having a seizure, despite how it takes place. You might wonder what you can do to comfort your scared pet; when this occurs, try to stay composed before tending to your pet. Sadly, there is no other way to stop your dog from having a seizure. However, routine veterinary tests, including vaccinations and blood tests, may help discover underlying diseases that cause seizures.
