Medications for Dogs Suffering from Seizures: Options Explained
Seeing a dog having a seizure can be very frightening, but understanding the medication options available can bring hope and improve quality of life. If your dog suffers seizures, working closely with your vet is essential to diagnosis, treatment, and careful monitoring to keep your dog safe and comfortable.
1. Phenobarbital: The Common First Choice
Puppies and adult dogs diagnosed with epilepsy or seizures are often prescribed phenobarbital, a barbiturate anticonvulsant and sedative. Given daily to reduce seizure frequency and severity, it's a well-established medication.
Possible side effects include increased appetite and thirst, causing more frequent toileting. Long-term use can affect liver function, so vets recommend blood tests two to three times a year to monitor health and avoid complications.
2. Potassium Bromide: A Complement or Alternative
Potassium bromide is often given alongside phenobarbital if seizure control isn't sufficient, or on its own if liver concerns exist. It is easier on the liver but may take up to four months to become effective. In some cases, treatment begins combined, then transitions to potassium bromide alone when stable.
3. Diazepam: Emergency Seizure Relief
Commonly known as Valium, diazepam is given during or just before a seizure cluster. It helps relax muscles and reduce seizure duration. It can be administered orally to conscious dogs or rectally to unresponsive dogs. It is not typically used daily but as immediate seizure first aid.
4. Newer Anti-Seizure Medications
Several newer drugs are proving valuable for dogs with difficult-to-control seizures or side effects to traditional drugs. These include:
- Levetiracetam (Keppra): Rapid onset and fewer side effects, available in various forms.
- Zonisamide (Zonegran): Used alone or with other meds, possible sedation, vomiting, and appetite changes.
- Primidone (Premidone): Metabolised into phenobarbital, used when other treatments fail, can cause drowsiness or dizziness.
Each requires a veterinary prescription and regular monitoring.
5. Monitoring and Responsible Management
Keeping a diary of seizure frequency, duration, and severity helps your vet tailor treatment. Understanding your dog's specific seizure patterns allows early recognition of attacks and timely emergency intervention with medications like diazepam.
If seizures worsen or last longer than five minutes, seek immediate veterinary advice as it may indicate status epilepticus, a serious condition requiring emergency care.
6. Ownership and Ongoing Care Commitment
Many dogs with seizure disorders live fulfilling lives with proper medication and monitoring. Responsible pet ownership means following your vet's advice, regularly monitoring your pet's health, and never stopping medication without consultation.
If you are considering finding a dog, remember to seek out reputable breeders or consider adoption, and discuss health history accurately with sellers or shelters.
What causes epileptic fits in dogs?
Quick Answer: Epileptic fits in dogs can be caused by genetic predisposition, brain trauma, infections, toxins, or metabolic disorders.
Seizures are the result of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Causes range from idiopathic epilepsy, which is genetic and common in certain breeds, to acquired causes like head injuries, brain tumours, infections (such as distemper), or exposure to toxins like pesticides or certain foods. Proper veterinary diagnosis is essential to identify underlying causes and guide treatment.
Can I give dogs Calpol?
Quick Answer: No, you should never give dogs Calpol (paracetamol) as it can be toxic and harmful.
Calpol contains paracetamol, which is not safe for dogs. It can cause serious liver damage and other toxic effects. Always consult your vet before giving any medication, as they can prescribe safe pain relief or treatment suitable for your dog's condition.
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