Comprehensive Guide to Seizures in Dogs and Cats

Seizures in dogs and cats are unsettling neurological events caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Understanding their nature, common causes, and how best to respond can empower pet owners to care for their beloved companions calmly and effectively. This guide covers everything from recognising seizures and epilepsy to first aid tips, when to consult a vet, and treatment options.

1. Understanding Seizures in Pets: What Are They?

A seizure is the visible result of abnormal, excessive brain electrical activity. It may involve sudden involuntary muscle spasms, altered awareness, and unusual behaviours. Seizures in pets generally fall into two categories:

Generalised Seizures

These affect the whole brain and body, often causing loss of consciousness. The most common type in dogs is the tonic-clonic seizure, characterised by a "tonic" phase (muscle stiffening leading to collapse) followed by a "clonic" phase (rhythmic jerking). This sequence unfolds over three stages:

• Prodromal stage: Behavioural changes such as restlessness or hiding may occur minutes to days before a seizure.
• Ictus (seizure phase): Sudden onset of stiff muscles, unconsciousness, dilated pupils, jaw clenching, drooling, paddling legs, sometimes loss of bladder or bowel control, lasting seconds to minutes.
• Postictal stage: The pet appears disorientated, weak, possibly blind or deaf, progressively recovering over minutes to days.

Partial (Focal) Seizures

These affect a specific part of the brain and may cause twitching or behavioural abnormalities without loss of consciousness. Cats often exhibit focal seizures. Symptoms include twitching of muscles, unusual vocalisation, or defensive behaviour. Partial seizures sometimes develop into generalised seizures.

2. What Is Epilepsy in Dogs and Cats?

Epilepsy refers to a condition of recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Some dog breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Border Collies, and German Shepherds show predisposition to inherited forms of epilepsy. However, idiopathic epilepsy (where no specific cause is found) is the most common type and can affect many breeds and cats alike.

3. Common Causes of Seizures: Intracranial and Extracranial

Seizures can result from many underlying causes broadly divided into two groups:

Intracranial Causes (within the brain)

• Brain tumours, though uncommon
• Inflammation or infections (viral, bacterial, protozoal)
• Traumas such as head injuries or poisoning
• Metabolic dysfunctions (some storage diseases)
• Congenital anomalies like hydrocephalus
• Inherited or idiopathic epilepsy

Extracranial Causes (outside the brain)

• Metabolic issues like hypoglycaemia (dangerous low blood sugar), liver/kidney failure
• Hyperthermia from overheating
• Exposure to toxins including chocolate, xylitol, lead and certain chemicals

4. Recognising a Seizure: Signs to Watch For

Pet owners should observe and note the following during any seizure episode as these details aid vets in diagnosis and treatment:

• Duration of the seizure
• Type and sequence of physical symptoms
• Loss of consciousness or awareness
• Muscle movements: stiffening, jerking, twitching
• Behavioural changes before or after seizure (e.g., restlessness, hunger, disorientation)

5. Immediate Response: What to Do if Your Pet Has a Seizure

• Stay calm and keep a clear head as panicking can increase stress for your pet.
• Do not put your hands near the mouth to avoid accidental bites.
• If necessary, move your pet away from hazards like stairs or furniture but do not restrain them.
• Reduce stimuli by dimming lights and lowering noise.
• Observe carefully and record the seizure's duration and symptoms.
• Keep other pets safely away as even friendly dogs may react unpredictably.
• When the seizure subsides, speak softly to comfort your disoriented pet.
• Allow your pet to rest but supervise closely to avoid self-harm.

6. When Should You Take Your Pet to the Vet?

• All puppies and kittens experiencing seizures should be seen urgently due to higher risk of serious causes like hypoglycaemia.
• If a seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or there are 3 or more seizures in 24 hours (status epilepticus), immediate veterinary emergency care is vital.
• For a first isolated seizure under 5 minutes with no other issues, wait out the postictal phase and arrange for a vet evaluation promptly.

7. Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Your vet will tailor diagnosis based on your pet’s history and exam findings, often involving:

• Blood tests to check for metabolic causes
• Imaging (MRI, CT scan) and cerebrospinal fluid analysis if necessary to investigate brain disease
• If an underlying cause is found, targeted treatment such as surgery or medical management for metabolic/toxic causes is provided
• Idiopathic epilepsy is usually managed with anticonvulsant medications such as phenobarbital or potassium bromide, balancing seizure control and medication side effects

8. Living with a Pet with Seizures: Monitoring and Care

Maintaining a seizure diary is invaluable to track frequency, duration, triggers, and post-seizure behaviour. This record helps your vet refine treatment over time. Responsible owners also ensure regular vet check-ups and prompt attention to any changes.

While seizures are frightening, many pets with epilepsy live happy, comfortable lives with the right support and medication. Early awareness, calm interventions, and professional care are the best pathways to helping your dog or cat through these episodes safely.