One of the most prevalent neurological conditions in dogs is seizures. Seizures in dogs are brought on by abnormal brain activity in the cerebral cortex, but there are numerous illnesses that can cause them. Sometimes the cause of seizure activity is unknown or may be inherited, as in the case of idiopathic epilepsy. Regardless of the cause, it’s crucial that you understand how to spot a seizure in your dog and your treatment options.
A seizure, which is also known as a convulsion or fit, is a brief involuntary disruption of regular brain function that is typically accompanied by uncontrolled muscle movement.
Idiopathic epilepsy, an inherited condition whose precise cause is unknown, is the most frequent cause of seizures in dogs. Infections, liver disease, liver failure, brain tumors, brain trauma, infections, liver disease, and reactions to toxins like xylitol are some additional causes. Popular artificial sweetener xylitol can result in dangerous blood sugar drops, which can lead to seizures.
Seizures can happen at any time of day or night, but they tend to happen more frequently when the brain’s activity is changing. This may occur when a dog is ecstatic, eating, nodding off, or simply waking up. Between seizures, most dogs appear to be completely normal.
Most seizures occur in three distinct phases. All three phases of the seizure will typically occur, but the duration of each phase cannot be predicted in advance. Recognize that each phase is distinct and that the seizure ends once phase three is reached.
Seizures are unplanned and typically cannot be prevented, but some dogs only experience them during times of extreme stress, and in these circumstances, the triggers may occasionally be avoided. Although they look traumatic, seizures arent painful to the dog. The injuries your dog sustains from falls or slamming into nearby objects while having a seizure could cause it the most harm.
How to Help if Your Dog is Having a Seizure
Regardless of whether this is your dog’s first seizure or you’ve witnessed one before, try to remain composed before tending to your dog. He will become even more alarmed by the situation if you confront him while sobbing or screaming.
Sit near your dog, but be careful about petting him. Sometimes, you can very carefully pet his back or other areas of his body that are difficult for him to reach with his mouth. However, be aware that dogs may bite erratically while having seizures. Similar to this, your dog may approach you confused and may bite you out of fear, pain, or confusion.
Even though it can be emotionally painful for you, it may be best to refrain from petting your dog if you’re dealing with a dog seizure for the first time.
Try to time your dog’s seizures if you can. Even if you don’t have a stopwatch, keeping an eye on the time will allow you to determine how long your dog has been seizing.
Everything should be fine if it lasts less than two minutes. If it lasts between two and five minutes, your dog needs to be taken to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
Any seizure that lasts longer than five minutes must be attended to by a veterinarian right away.
Your dog needs to see a veterinarian right away if he has several seizures in the space of a few minutes and does not awaken between them.
Carefully Move Your Dog to a Safer Location
If your dog experiences a seizure close to the stairs or the edge of the bed, gently move him to a safer area or put something in front of him to keep him from falling and hurting himself. Before or after a seizure, dogs may experience panic and run around aimlessly without thinking or paying attention to where they are going. Additionally, they might not always be in control of their movements and might possibly seize so strongly that they stumble.
Speak in low, comforting tones to your dog. After a seizure, some owners even try playing soothing music for their dogs. This is acceptable as long as you don’t play anything too loud. However, if you just let your dog return to normal without adding additional distractions around him, he might appreciate it more.
Seizures cause your dog’s body temperature to climb quickly. Therefore, after the seizure has passed, it may be beneficial to gently place cool washcloths over his feet. Before you do this, wait for your dog to awaken because if you don’t, he might bite you.
After a seizure, some owners comfort their dog by wrapping him in a towel or blanket and holding him. If your dog has recovered from the seizure and is alert and acting normally, you may do this. If not, however, don’t do this.
If hugging bothers your dog normally, refrain from doing this because he won’t find it comforting in this circumstance either.
Your dog may be exhausted once he is awake and alert once more. Allow him to sleep; while you may occasionally check on him, it’s best to let him rest.
What to Do When Your Dog Has a Seizure
Dog seizures are not painful, despite the frightening display. Although it may seem counterproductive, please refrain from restraint and keep your hands away from your dog’s mouth while it is having an episode. There is a good chance that you will unintentionally get bitten if you try to comfort or change your dog in the moment. The majority of seizures are self-limiting and end within 30 to 60 seconds.
Having said that, here are some recommendations for what to do if your dog convulses:
While it’s not necessary to call your veterinarian every time your dog has a seizure, you should do so if it happens for the first time or if it starts happening more frequently than usual.
However, if a seizure lasts longer than three minutes, your dog has more than two seizures in a 24-hour period, or you suspect poisoning, it is considered an EMERGENCY. Get your dog to a veterinary facility immediately. NEVER wait for a seizure to end if it lasts longer than three minutes. There is a greater chance of serious and possibly fatal complications the longer a seizure lasts.
FAQ
How do I help my dog through a seizure?
- Keep Yourself Calm. …
- Sit Near Your Dog. …
- Time Your Dog’s Seizures. …
- Carefully Move Your Dog to a Safer Location. …
- Speak in Comforting Tones. …
- Lower Your Dog’s Body Temperature. …
- Wrap and Comfort Your Dog. …
- Let Your Dog Sleep.
Can you calm a dog out of a seizure?
Stay with your dog, but away from their mouth. Speaking softly and petting your dog can help it relax. Be ready to go. Make an immediate call to your veterinarian or a veterinary emergency clinic if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes.
What can trigger seizures in dogs?
…
These problems can include:
- Low blood sugar.
- Poisons or toxins.
- Liver problems.
- Kidney disease.
- Electrolyte abnormalities (low blood calcium)