Seizures in Dogs
A seizure is a brief, spontaneous discharge of multiple brain circuits simultaneously. Seizures are commonly seen in dogs, with up to 5% of the canine population being affected by this disorder.
How do I recognize one?
Seizures take many forms in dogs. The most common, a generalized tonic-clonic seizure, is a “convulsion” in which the dog has impaired consciousness, is laying on its side, with rigid limbs alternating with running-type movements of all four limbs. Vocalization is common, as is involuntary urination or defecation. Other forms of seizures in dogs include partial seizures in which there is a repetitive, involuntary movement of one part of the body with or without altered consciousness, and psychomotor seizures; in which a normal stereotyped behavior occurs spontaneously and uncontrollably. The most common psychomotor seizure in dogs is the fly-biting seizure, in which the dog episodically snaps at imaginary flies. Seizures commonly begin with a pre-ictal phase, in which the dog may seem apprehensive or nervous and they are frequently followed by a post-ictal phase in which the dog seems uncoordinated, confused, tired and/or hungry and thirsty. Most seizures are between 30 seconds and 2 minutes in duration.
What do I do?
Immediately, do nothing unless the seizure takes place at a location (such as at the top of a stairway) in which the dog may injure itself. When a dog is having a seizure, they are not in control of their body and it is possible that the dog could bite or otherwise injure you. When the seizure is over, seek veterinary attention, either with your primary care veterinarian or at the closest emergency clinic. If the seizure lasts longer than 4 minutes, take your dog IMMEDIATELY to the nearest open veterinary clinic, as this is a life-threatening emergency.
What’s the cause?
In young adult dogs between the ages of 1 and 5 years, epilepsy, congenital liver disease, congenital brain disorders, encephalitis and exposure to certain toxins are the most common causes of seizures. In middle-aged to older dogs, brain tumors and stroke are more common.
What will my vet do?
Initially, your vet will run blood tests to screen for metabolic abnormalities such as a low blood sugar and, in older animals, chest x-rays and blood pressure are usually checked as well. If those tests are negative, and just a single seizure has occurred, we will often take a wait-and-see approach. If additional seizures are seen, further testing with a neurologist may be recommended; these tests may include a brain MRI and spinal tap.
by Stacey A. Sullivan,
DVM, Diplomate ACVIM (Neurology)