Epilepsy in Dogs, how to act? Symptoms and Treatment

Epilepsy in dogs is a chronic neurological condition characterized by the onset of recurrent seizures. These seizures can vary in intensity and duration, and can present in an unpredictable manner, which can be frightening and stressful for both the dog and its handlers.

In this blog, we'll explore epilepsy in dogs in depth, from its causes and symptoms to its diagnosis and treatment options. Additionally, we will provide practical tips and management strategies that can help caregivers provide the best possible care for their furry friends with this condition. If this is something that interests you, we invite you to continue reading.

What is epilepsy in dogs?

Epilepsy in dogs is a chronic neurological disease characterized by recurrent seizures. Seizures are episodes of abnormal brain activity that can manifest in different ways, such as tremors, muscle stiffness, uncoordinated movements, or loss of consciousness. Epilepsy in dogs can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as genetic factors, brain injuries, chemical imbalances, or even infections. It is a condition that can affect dogs of all ages and breeds, and its management and treatment vary according to each case. If your dog has recurring seizures, it's important to seek veterinary attention for a proper diagnosis and proper treatment plan.

Types of Seizures in Dogs

There are different types of seizures that can affect dogs. Here I mention some of the most common:

Generalized or tonic-clonic seizures

They are the most recognizable seizures and are characterized by intense muscle contractions and loss of consciousness. During these seizures, the dog may fall to the ground, have stiff and uncoordinated movements, salivate or drool excessively, and lose bladder or bowel control.

Partial or focal seizures

In this case, the seizures are limited to a specific part of the dog's body. It can affect a limb, the face, or even just a particular muscle. During these seizures, the dog may display repetitive movements or tics in the affected region.

Absence seizures

They are more subtle seizures and can be difficult to recognize. During an absence seizure, the dog may freeze, stare into space, and appear disconnected from its surroundings for a few seconds or minutes. They can be easily confused with distractions or forgetfulness.

Myoclonic seizures

These seizures are characterized by rapid, brief muscle movements, often in the form of jerks or spasms. They can affect specific muscle groups or the body in general.

It is important to remember that each dog can present with seizures differently. If your dog experiences recurring seizures, it is critical to seek veterinary attention for an accurate diagnosis and establish an appropriate treatment plan to effectively manage his condition.

Symptoms of epilepsy in a dog

The symptoms of epilepsy in dogs can vary, the most frequent are usually:

• Fainting
• involuntary urination
• falls
• cramps
• muscle seizure
• chewing movements
• hallucinations
• excessive salivation

In these cases, it is convenient to consult with the veterinarian, who will guide you in this regard. A vaccine that is optional here in Mexico may be mandatory in another where the disease is common.

What causes epilepsy in a dog?

The exact cause of epilepsy in dogs is not always known, but there may be different factors that contribute to the development of this condition. Here are some possible causes and triggers of epilepsy in dogs:

Brain trauma

A dog's head trauma can lead to changes in the brain that trigger seizures

Nervous system disease

Certain diseases of the nervous system can cause epilepsy in dogs, such as encephalitis.

Brain tumors

They can cause seizures and other neurological symptoms in dogs.

Toxins

Certain toxins, such as rat poison or lead poisoning, can cause seizures.

Infections

Some infections, such as encephalitis or meningitis, can cause seizures.

What to do in case of epilepsy in dogs? Step by Step

Follow these recommendations if your dog is having an epileptic seizure:

Keep calm

The most important thing is to stay calm and try not to scare the dog. Seizures can be scary for owners, but it's important to know that your dog isn't in pain.

Ensure a safe environment

Place dangerous or sharp objects out of the dog's reach and place pillows or soft objects under his head to prevent injury.

Don't try to stop the seizure

Do not try to stop the seizure, as this may cause him to hurt himself or feel scared. Seizures in dogs generally last between 30 seconds and two minutes.

Observe the duration and frequency of seizures

If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or your dog has more than three seizures in one day, you should take him to the vet immediately.

Take your dog to the vet

After a seizure, it's important to take your dog to the vet so he can be evaluated and treated. The vet can prescribe medication to prevent future seizures.

How long does an epileptic seizure last in dogs ?

The duration of an epileptic seizure in dogs can vary considerably. In general, epileptic seizures in dogs usually last from a few seconds to a few minutes. However, some attacks can last longer.

If your dog experiences an epileptic seizure, we recommend taking note of the duration of the episode and any other relevant details to report to your vet. Recording detailed information about the seizures can help your vet assess the severity of your dog's epilepsy and determine the best treatment approach.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Living with epilepsy

The first and most important thing is that the veterinarian determines the correct diagnosis, since epilepsy can be confused with syncope, neurological alterations or even narcolepsy or very intense pain. If you are interested in knowing how to cure epilepsy in dogs, we must be clear that, although drugs are available, they may not be completely effective. Therefore, the objective of treatment will be to reduce the frequency of seizures and their severity. It is also important to know that these pills for epilepsy in dogs can have side effects such as sedation, although dogs usually get used to them in a few weeks, to the point of tolerating them. If a cause for the epilepsy is discovered, it must be treated.

Another alternative treatment may be the use of CBD (cannabidiol) which has been the subject of interest and study in recent years. CBD is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant, but unlike THC, it does not have psychoactive properties.

Some preliminary studies have suggested that CBD may have anticonvulsant effects and be useful in the management of seizures in dogs with epilepsy. The exact mechanism of action of CBD in relation to seizures is not yet fully understood, but it is believed that it may interact with brain receptors involved in the regulation of electrical activity.

It is important to note that the use of CBD for dogs with epilepsy should be performed under the supervision and recommendation of a veterinarian. Proper dosage and administration may vary based on individual dog needs, and a veterinarian will be able to provide specific guidance.

If you want to know more about what are the allowed doses of cbd for dogs , it is advisable that you visit the link and read the article that Waggy's has for you. In addition, we tell you that many of our clients use our natural treats for dogs to relieve stress and anxiety in dogs when they are in consultation with the vet, since this situation is unfriendly for the pet, so if your dog does not suffer from this chronic neurological disease you can always use our products in the case mentioned above.

Conclusion

In conclusion, epilepsy in dogs is a chronic neurological disease that can affect the quality of life of our beloved pets. While it can be unnerving and distressing to witness our dog experiencing seizures, it's important to remember that canine epilepsy is manageable.

In this blog, we have explored the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of epilepsy in dogs. We have also highlighted the importance of seeking veterinary care to obtain an accurate diagnosis and establish an appropriate treatment plan.

As dog lovers and caregivers, it is crucial to educate ourselves about this condition and to be compassionate towards our furry friends with epilepsy. We can help provide them with a happy and healthy life by learning to recognize the signs of seizures, ensuring their safety during episodes, and following medical advice.

Remember, epilepsy in dogs does not define your pet. With the right support and proper treatment, we can ensure that our epileptic dogs can lead full and meaningful lives. Together, we can be informed, understanding, and loving caregivers for our dogs affected by this condition.

If your dog has been diagnosed with epilepsy, we encourage you to work closely with your veterinarian to establish an individualized management plan that is tailored to your pet's needs. With love, patience, and knowledge, we can provide the care our dogs need and deserve, giving them happy, healthy lives despite epilepsy.