What Can Cause Seizures in Dogs

Seizures in dogs can be a frightening experience for both the pet and the owner. These sudden, uncontrolled episodes of electrical activity in the brain can have various causes, ranging from underlying medical conditions to environmental factors. Understanding what can cause seizures in dogs is crucial for identifying potential triggers, managing the condition, and ensuring your dog receives appropriate care. This guide will explore the most common causes of seizures in dogs, how to recognize the signs, and what to do if your dog experiences a seizure.

What Cauese Seizures in Dogs?

Seizures in dogs can result from various factors, ranging from genetic conditions to environmental influences.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is one of the most common causes of seizures in dogs. It is a chronic condition that can be either idiopathic (with no known cause) or symptomatic (resulting from an underlying issue). Idiopathic epilepsy is often genetic and is more common in certain breeds, such as Beagles, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers.

Brain Tumors

Brain tumors can also lead to seizures in dogs, especially in older animals. Tumors can put pressure on the brain, disrupting normal electrical activity and causing seizures. These tumors may be benign or malignant, and symptoms often progress as the tumor grows.

Toxins

Exposure to certain toxins can cause seizures in dogs. Common household items such as pesticides, antifreeze, certain human medications (like antidepressants or painkillers), and even some foods (like chocolate or xylitol) can be toxic to dogs and trigger seizures.

Metabolic Disorders

Metabolic disorders like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hepatic encephalopathy (caused by liver disease), and kidney failure can lead to seizures. These conditions disrupt the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system, resulting in seizure activity.

Head Trauma

A dog that has suffered a head injury may be at risk for seizures. Trauma to the brain can cause swelling, bleeding, or scarring, which can lead to seizures either immediately after the injury or later as a secondary complication.

Infectious Diseases

Certain infectious diseases, such as canine distemper, rabies, or encephalitis, can cause inflammation of the brain, leading to seizures. These diseases are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, lethargy, and behavioral changes.

Congenital Abnormalities

Some dogs are born with congenital abnormalities in the brain that can cause seizures. These abnormalities may include hydrocephalus (fluid accumulation in the brain) or other structural defects that affect brain function.

Related: Can Dehydration Cause Seizures In Dogs?

How to Know Seizures in Dog?

Dog Seizure Precursors

There are a number of behavioral changes that dogs may exhibit prior to a seizure that can serve as early warning signs of an impending seizure. Common behavioral changes include.

• Irritability: dogs may seem unusually anxious or irritable and exhibit restless behavior.
• Looking for the owner or hiding: they may try to get closer to the owner or find a safe place to hide.
• Behavioral changes: there may be unusual behavior such as nodding, shaking the head or barking.
• Mood changes: the dog may exhibit attention-seeking behavior or, conversely, try to avoid people.
• Physical symptoms: such as trembling or mild twitching in other parts of the body.

Symptoms of a Seizure

Seizures in dogs can present in various ways, but common symptoms include:

• Sudden collapse or falling over
• Uncontrollable shaking or convulsions
• Paddling motions with the legs
• Drooling or foaming at the mouth
• Loss of consciousness
• Involuntary urination or defecation
• Disorientation or confusion after the seizure

Types of Seizures

• Generalized (Grand Mal) Seizures: These involve the entire body and are the most common type of seizure in dogs. They typically last from a few seconds to a few minutes.
• Focal (Partial) Seizures: These affect only one part of the brain and may cause localized symptoms, such as twitching in one limb or facial muscle.
• Cluster Seizures: These occur when a dog experiences multiple seizures within a short period (24 hours).
• Status Seizures: A prolonged seizure lasting more than five minutes or multiple seizures without recovery in between. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention.
• Idiopathic Seizures: seizures of unknown cause, usually thought to be genetically related.
• Structural Seizures: caused by diseases of the brain structure, such as tumors and strokes.
• Reactive Seizures: response to specific stimuli (e.g., toxins, environmental factors, etc.).
• Psychomotor Seizures: mainly manifested by strange behaviors, such as running in circles, biting the air, etc. . 

Preventive measures

1. Avoid known seizure triggers such as certain toxins and environmental stress.
2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and moderate exercise.
3. Reduce your dog's stress and provide a quiet and comfortable environment.
4. Take your dog for regular health checkups, especially for the brain.
5. Consider genetic counseling and early intervention for dogs with a family history of epilepsy. 

Also Read:  Understanding Dog Seizures

What Are the Treatments for Seizures in Dogs?

The main treatments for epilepsy in dogs include medication, non-pharmacologic therapies, and cause elimination.

Medication

This is the most common treatment and anti-epileptic drugs such as sodium phenytoin, sodium valproate and topiramate are usually used to control the frequency and intensity of seizures. Medication requires dosage adjustments based on your dog's weight and condition, and may need to be taken over a long period of time. 

Non-pharmacologic therapies

include vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and dietary management. Vagus nerve stimulation involves the implantation of a pacemaker-like device that reduces seizures by electrically stimulating the vagus nerve. Dietary management, especially a ketogenic diet, has been shown to help control seizures in some dogs. 

Cause Elimination

If there is a definite cause for the seizures, such as parasites in the brain, tumors, or metabolic disorders, treating these underlying conditions may help reduce seizures. 

Treatment of epilepsy in dogs should be done under the guidance of a veterinarian, as an individualized treatment plan needs to be tailored to the dog's specific condition. In addition, regular monitoring of your dog's health and medication side effects is required during treatment.

What First Aid Measures Should I Take When My Dog Has a Seizure?

When your dog has a seizure, you should take the following first aid measures.

Stay calm

During a seizure, your dog may bite unconsciously, so you need to remain calm and avoid direct contact with your dog's head.

Safe environment

Remove any sharp or hard objects from around your dog to prevent them from getting injured during a seizure.

Record the seizure

Observe and record the time and duration of the seizure and your dog's behavior; this information is important for veterinary diagnosis and treatment.

Don't forcefully move or stimulate your dog

Do not move your dog during a seizure unless they are in danger. Turn off surrounding lights and noise to minimize irritation.

Remove surrounding objects

Remove any items around your dog that could cause injury, such as furniture edges or glassware.

Do not forcefully move the dog

Do not try to move your dog during a seizure unless they are in danger, such as near stairs or a fire source.

 Do not put hand in dog''s mouth

Dogs may bite unconsciously during a seizure, so don't try to put your hand or any objects in their mouths

Cooling measures

If your dog is having a prolonged seizure, longer than 5 minutes, use a towel moistened with cool water to wipe your dog's head, neck, groin and paws to help lower their body temperature.

Don't try to open your dog's mouth

Dogs don't swallow their tongues during a seizure, and forcing their mouths open could lead to dental damage or other injuries.

Seek veterinary help

If your dog has a seizure that lasts longer than 2 minutes, or more than two seizures in a 24-hour period, contact a veterinarian immediately or rush to an animal hospital. 

Keep in mind that these first aid measures are temporary, and your dog should get professional veterinary care as soon as possible after a seizure.

How to Reduce the Frequency of Seizures in Dogs?

To reduce the frequency of seizures in dogs, consider the following foods and medications.

Foods

• Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oils

Foods containing MCT, such as coconut oil, may help reduce seizure frequency because the caprylic acid in MCT blocks AMPA receptors, which reduces neuronal excitation. 

• Ketogenic diet

The ketogenic diet induces the body to enter a ketogenic state by structuring the diet high in fat, moderate in protein and low in carbohydrates, producing ketone bodies as a source of energy, which may help to reduce seizures. 

• Protein

Dogs need to consume enough protein to keep their bodies functioning properly. High-quality sources of protein should be chosen, such as lean meat, fish and beans. 

• Limit certain foods

Foods high in sugar, salt, stimulants and alcohol should be avoided, which may trigger seizures. 

• Minerals and vitamins

Dogs with epilepsy should increase their intake of foods rich in minerals such as magnesium and zinc, which are essential for nervous system function. 

 

• Avoid allergic foods

Foods that may cause allergies, such as certain dairy products and eggs, should be avoided. 

• Maintain dietary hygiene

Avoid food poisoning and bacterial infections and make sure the food is fresh and safe. 

Medications

• Levetiracetam

This is an anticonvulsant medication that has been shown to be effective in controlling seizures in pets with fewer side effects.

• CBD Oil

Studies have shown that CBD oil can reduce the frequency of seizures in dogs, and there is a significant correlation between CBD concentrations in the blood and seizure reduction. 

Before implementing any dietary changes or starting a new medication, consult with your veterinarian to ensure that the chosen method is appropriate for your dog and to monitor your dog's response and health. Your veterinarian may recommend an individualized treatment plan based on your dog's specific situation.

Measures

• Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)

This is a treatment that involves electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve through the surgical implantation of a pacemaker-like device, which can help regulate brain activity and reduce seizures. 

• Acupressure

Acupressure points from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapies, such as the GV26 point, can be used as a simple and easy-to-use adjunctive treatment to help alleviate epilepsy symptoms. 

• Supplements

Supplementation with specific fatty acids, such as medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil and omega-3 fatty acids, may help stabilize cell membranes and reduce seizures. 

• Lifestyle modifications

Maintaining a regular routine, getting enough sleep and proper exercise can promote your dog's overall health and may help control seizures. 

• Avoiding Stimuli

Reducing stimuli such as noise and flashing lights in the environment can help reduce the risk of seizures. 

• Physical therapy

including electrical stimulation therapy, can help reduce the symptoms of epilepsy and improve quality of life. 

• Safe environment

Ensure your dog lives in a safe environment and take the necessary precautions to reduce the risk of accidental injury. 

What Special Dietary Requirements Should Dogs with Seizures Be Aware Of?

Control carbohydrate intake

Low-carbohydrate foods should be chosen to avoid blood sugar fluctuations that can cause seizures. 

Supplement essential fatty acids

Foods rich in essential fatty acids, such as fish oil and flaxseed oil, help maintain the normal functioning of the nervous system. 

Easily Digestible Foods

Choose easily digestible foods such as pasta, beans, lean meats, eggs and fish to ease the burden on the digestive system. 

Avoid foods high in zinc and potassium

Epilepsy is associated with increased levels of zinc in the body, especially in the brain, and too much potassium may also be detrimental. 

Take calcium supplements

Calcium is important for stabilizing the nerves and you should make sure that your dog's diet contains enough of it. 

Keep the diet light and nutritious

Avoid foods that irritate the nerves, drink plenty of water and choose mild fruits such as apples. 

Control the amount and frequency of diet

Avoid overloading the body by over-consumption. 

Consider special prescription food

Prescription foods designed for dogs with epilepsy are available on the market, and these foods may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. 

When adjusting your dog's diet, you should consult your veterinarian for advice to ensure that the diet plan is appropriate for your dog's specific health condition.

How to Take Care of a Dog with Seizures on a Daily Basis?

Daily care for dogs with seizures requires attention to the following points.

• Give medication at regular intervals

If your dog is on anti-epileptic medication, make sure it is given on time to maintain medication levels and reduce the risk of seizures. 

• Record seizures

Keeping a detailed record of the time, duration, symptoms, and possible triggers of each of your dog's seizures will help your veterinarian adjust the treatment plan. 

• Safe Environment

When the owner is not at home, the dog should be placed in a safe place, such as a crate or enclosure, to prevent injury during a seizure. 

• Regular review

Take your dog to the hospital for regular rechecks to monitor blood indicators and medication side effects to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the medication. 

• Avoid triggering factors

Pay attention to changes in your dog's behavior and environment and avoid known triggers such as stress, overexcitement, or specific smells and sounds. 

• Emergency Preparedness

Understand first aid in the event of a seizure in your dog, such as keeping your dog quiet, preventing tongue biting, etc., and make sure you have a way to contact your veterinarian in an emergency at home. 

• Nutrition and Exercise

Providing a balanced diet and moderate exercise to help your dog maintain a healthy weight and good physical condition is also beneficial for seizure management.

• Patience and care

Epilepsy can be stressful and uncomfortable for your dog, and as an owner, you need to provide extra patience and affection to help your dog cope with the disease.

The above measures will help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs and improve the quality of life.

When to See a Doctor?

You should take your dog to the doctor immediately when he or she exhibits any of the following symptoms

• Persistent or severe coughing
• Difficulty or shortness of breath
• Mobility problems, such as limping or inability to move
• Vomiting, especially frequent vomiting or vomit containing foreign objects  
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Diarrhea, especially severe or bloody diarrhea
• Abnormal body temperature, consistently above the normal range (37.5-39 degrees Celsius)
• Mental depression and lack of energy
• Behavioral changes, such as licking a body part excessively or showing signs of pain
• Inability to urinate or blood in the urine
• Loss of appetite accompanied by weight loss
• Persistent abnormal grunting, such as moaning or barking
• Any sudden, unusual symptoms, especially if your dog has a history of chronic illness or epilepsy. 

FAQs

Why Should I Not Attempt to Move My Dog During a Seizure?

Attempting to move your dog during a seizure is not recommended, mainly because during a seizure, your dog may clench their teeth unconsciously or convulse, which could result in injury to them or those around them. Additionally, moving your dog may increase their confusion and struggling, which can lead to more serious injuries or make the seizure last longer. When your dog is having a seizure, you should remain calm and make sure there are no hard or sharp objects around your dog to prevent them from being injured during the seizure. If your dog is in a dangerous position, such as the edge of a staircase, gently move them to safety. At the end of the seizure, your dog may feel confused or tired and should be gently calmed. 

What Objects Should Be Removed From Your Dog to Avoid Injury During a Seizure?

You should quickly remove the following items to avoid injury to your dog during a seizure.

Furniture edges: sharp edges of furniture can cause cuts or impact injuries when your dog has a seizure.
Hard and sharp objects: Any hard or sharp object can cause serious injury to your dog during a seizure.
Glassware: Glass can break and cause cuts or more serious injuries.
Cords and gadgets: dogs may accidentally chew on or hit these items, causing choking or internal injuries.
Stairs or high places: prevent your dog from falling and getting hurt during a seizure.
Other pets or animals: make sure no other pets are in the seizure area to avoid accidents.
Your first priority when dealing with a seizure is to ensure your dog's safety and provide them with an environment free of potential hazards as soon as possible. 

What  Tools Do Pet Owners Need to Have on Hand to Deal with a Dog Seizure?

Thick towels or blankets: for wrapping the dog to protect them from injury during a seizure and for cleaning secretions from the mouth if necessary. 
Soft cloth or gloves: used when cleaning secretions from around the dog's mouth and nose to minimize the risk of the owner being bitten. 
Timer or watch: used to record the duration of the seizure, which is important for the veterinarian to assess the condition and adjust the treatment plan. 
First Aid Record Sheet: Used to record the date, time, and duration of the seizure, the severity of the symptoms, and any possible triggers, this information is very useful to the veterinarian. 
First aid manuals or guides: pet owners should be familiar with the steps on how to deal with a seizure and be able to quickly take the right action in an emergency. 
Having these first aid tools on hand can help pet owners provide prompt and appropriate first aid in the event of a seizure in their dog and provide detailed information to their veterinarian if necessary.

Why are Some Specific Dog Breeds More Likely to Have Hereditary Seizure ?

The reason specific dog breeds are more likely to develop hereditary epilepsy is primarily related to genetic factors. Studies have shown that epilepsy is hereditary and familial in many dog breeds, meaning that it spreads in specific families or animal lines. For example, breeds such as beagles, Dutch dogs, Belgian Tambourines, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Vichira Hounds, and Pleasant Shepherds are more prone to idiopathic epilepsy. Polygenic and recessive patterns of inheritance are suggested in Bernese Mountain Dogs and Labrador Retrievers, whereas non-sex hormone recessive traits have been proposed in Vizsla and Irish Wolfhounds. In addition, seizures are concentrated in localized areas of the brain, as in the Finnish Terrier. These genetic traits are usually expressed between the ages of 10 months and 3 years in dogs. Therefore, understanding the genetic background of the breed is essential for the prevention and management of hereditary epilepsy. 

How to Distinguish Between a Common Convulsion and a Seizure in Dogs?

The key to distinguishing between a dog's ordinary convulsions and seizures is to observe the characteristics of the convulsions and accompanying symptoms. Seizures are usually characterized by generalized muscle twitching that lasts for a longer period of time and may be accompanied by loss of consciousness, drooling, incontinence, and other symptoms. In contrast, common convulsions may be localized and shorter in duration, and the dog may remain conscious during the convulsions. During a seizure, the dog's eyes are usually dull and unresponsive, while ordinary convulsions may be caused by pain, shock, or other non-neurological causes. If your dog experiences persistent seizures or multiple convulsions, you should contact your veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment. 

Conclusion

Seizures in dogs can have various causes, from epilepsy to toxins or underlying health issues. Recognizing the signs of a seizure and knowing how to respond is crucial for your dog’s safety. While some seizures can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, others may require more intensive veterinary care. Regular check-ups and preventive measures can help reduce the risk of seizures and ensure your dog’s overall well-being. If your dog experiences a seizure, consulting with a veterinarian is essential to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Also Read: Dog Seizures When to Put Down