Epilepsy in pets: Recognizing and managing seizures in animals

By: Finnegan Blackwood 12 Jul 15

Understanding Epilepsy in Pets

Just like humans, our pets can also suffer from epilepsy. This is a neurological disorder that causes sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. It can lead to changes in behavior, feelings, and often, seizures. Understanding this condition is vital to ensuring the health and happiness of our beloved pets. We should be well equipped with information about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of epilepsy in animals.

Identifying the Signs of Seizures in Pets

Recognizing a seizure in your pet can be both scary and confusing. The signs can vary greatly, ranging from dramatic convulsions to subtle, confusing behaviors such as staring off into space. Other signs may include sudden bouts of running as if being chased, frantic barking, loss of consciousness, or uncontrolled urination or defecation. It's essential to observe and remember these signs as they can greatly assist the veterinarian in diagnosing your pet's condition.

Common Causes of Epilepsy in Pets

Epilepsy in pets can be caused by a variety of factors. This can include hereditary predispositions, brain tumors, stroke, or severe head injury. In many cases, the exact cause remains unknown and it is termed as idiopathic epilepsy. Understanding the potential causes can help in determining the best course of treatment and possibly even prevent the seizures from happening in the first place.

Diagnosing Epilepsy in Animals

Diagnosing epilepsy in pets involves a series of tests and examinations. The vet will typically start with a complete physical examination and a thorough history of your pet's health. Further diagnostic tests may include blood tests, urinalysis, and possibly even an MRI or CT scan. Each of these tests contributes to a comprehensive evaluation that helps the vet in determining the underlying cause of the seizures and formulating a treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Pets with Epilepsy

Treatment for epilepsy in pets is usually aimed at reducing the frequency and severity of the seizures. This can include medication, dietary changes, and in some cases, surgery. The specific treatment plan will depend on the underlying cause of the seizures, the severity of the condition, and the overall health of your pet. It's essential to follow the vet's instructions closely to ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.

Caring for Pets with Epilepsy

Caring for pets with epilepsy can be a challenging task. It requires patience, understanding, and a lot of love. It's important to keep a seizure diary to track your pet's seizures, their frequency, duration, and any triggers. This information can assist your vet in adjusting your pet's treatment plan. Make sure your home is safe for a pet with epilepsy, removing potential hazards that might cause injury during a seizure. Remember, your pet may need extra love and attention during this time.

Living with a Pet with Epilepsy

Living with a pet with epilepsy can be a roller coaster of emotions. There may be days of frustration and worry, but there will also be days of joy and love. Remember, your pet is still the same lovable creature they were before their diagnosis. They just need a bit more care and understanding. With your help and the right treatment, they can live a long, happy, and fulfilling life.

Preventing Seizures in Pets

Preventing seizures in pets can be a difficult task, especially if the cause is unknown. However, some measures can be taken to reduce the risk. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and regular vet check-ups. If your pet is on medication for epilepsy, ensure they take it consistently and as prescribed. Avoiding stress and keeping a calm and stable environment can also help in preventing seizures.

Seeking Support and Further Information

Epilepsy in pets can be a daunting journey for pet owners, but you are not alone. There are numerous support groups and resources available online and in your local community that can offer advice, share experiences, and provide emotional support. Remember, information is power. Stay informed about your pet's condition, seek professional advice when needed, and keep a positive outlook. With the right knowledge and support, you can manage your pet's epilepsy effectively and ensure they live a happy and comfortable life.

15 Comments

Kelly McDonald

July 14, 2023 AT 01:31

My rescue pup Luna had her first seizure last winter - I thought she was dying. Turns out it was idiopathic epilepsy. Now she’s on potassium bromide and lives like a champ. I keep a seizure journal in my phone - triggers? Stress, loud fireworks, and that one time we watched a horror movie together. She still steals socks and naps in the sun. She’s not broken. She’s just extra dramatic.

Love you, weirdo.

PS: If you’re new to this - breathe. You’ve got this.
Joe Gates

July 14, 2023 AT 16:07

Let me tell you something that nobody talks about enough - the emotional toll of managing epilepsy in pets isn’t just about the seizures, it’s about the hypervigilance, the sleepless nights wondering if this is the one, the guilt you feel when you’re late giving meds because you were stuck in traffic, the way your heart stops every time your dog stares too long at the wall like they’re seeing ghosts, the silent prayers you whisper when the vet says ‘we’ll monitor’ - and then there’s the joy, oh god, the joy, when they wag their tail after a seizure like nothing happened, like they’re saying ‘I’m still here, I’m still me’ - that’s the miracle, right there, that’s the reason we don’t give up, because love isn’t conditional on perfect health, it’s louder than fear, and louder than seizures, and louder than the ticking clock that says ‘maybe this time it’s the last one’ - we keep going because they keep loving us, even when they don’t know what’s happening, even when they’re scared, even when they’re lost - and that’s the real medicine, right there, the love.

Don’t let anyone tell you you’re overreacting. You’re not. You’re a hero in a lab coat made of sweat and slobber.
harvey karlin

July 15, 2023 AT 01:48

Neurological hyperexcitability + GABAergic modulation = baseline protocol. Phenobarbital + levetiracetam combo still gold standard for canine idiopathic epilepsy. Avoid ketogenic diets unless under vet supervision - pancreatitis risk in dogs is real. EEG not feasible in most clinics, so clinical phenotyping + MRI is your best bet. Track seizure clusters, not just frequency. Status epilepticus >5min = ER. Period.
Anil Bhadshah

July 15, 2023 AT 04:32

My golden retriever, Rocky, had 3 seizures last year. Now he’s on Keppra and sleeps like a baby. I use a free app called PetSeizureLog - it tracks time, duration, and triggers. Also, keep a soft blanket near his bed. He’s calmer when he has something to grip. 🐶❤️
Trupti B

July 17, 2023 AT 00:17

my cat started having fits after i got that new air purifier maybe its the chemicals idk but i stopped using it and she been chill since
lili riduan

July 18, 2023 AT 20:06

OMG I cried reading this. My girl, Mochi, had her first grand mal at 2am. I thought I’d lost her. But now? She’s my little warrior. I made her a seizure cushion out of old pillows - she loves it. And I started a TikTok page for pet epilepsy awareness - 50k followers now. You’re not alone. We’re a tribe now. 💜
VEER Design

July 19, 2023 AT 11:15

There’s a quiet poetry in watching a creature endure something they can’t name, yet still wag their tail, still lick your hand, still choose you - even when their mind betrays them. Epilepsy doesn’t steal the soul. It just makes the body a storm. And the ones who stay? They’re the ones who learned to love the thunder.

Also, check out the International Veterinary Epilepsy Task Force guidelines - they’re gold. Not all vets know this stuff.
Leslie Ezelle

July 20, 2023 AT 21:08

Ugh. I’ve seen so many vets misdiagnose this. One called my dog’s seizure ‘just anxiety.’ ANXIETY? He was foaming at the mouth and peeing himself. I switched vets immediately. If your vet doesn’t mention MRI or EEG within the first consult - walk out. This isn’t a ‘wait and see’ situation. It’s neurological. Treat it like it.
Dilip p

July 21, 2023 AT 22:05

Episodes of uncontrolled neuronal discharge are not merely medical events - they are existential ruptures in the animal’s perception of self. The owner’s role transcends caretaker; they become the anchor in a storm of synaptic chaos. Pharmacological intervention must be balanced with environmental stability. A predictable routine - feeding, walking, sleeping - reduces cortical irritability. I have seen dogs with idiopathic epilepsy live beyond 14 years with proper management. Hope is not naive. It is neurologically validated.
Kathleen Root-Bunten

July 22, 2023 AT 09:23

I’m new to this - my cat had her first seizure last week. I’m terrified but trying to stay calm. Can someone recommend a good online support group? I feel like I’m drowning in Google searches. Also, is it normal to feel guilty? Like I did something wrong?
Vivian Chan

July 23, 2023 AT 04:56

Have you considered that pet epilepsy might be linked to 5G towers? Or glyphosate in their kibble? I read a paper - not peer-reviewed, but still - that showed a spike in seizures near cell towers. My neighbor’s dog started seizing right after the new WiFi router was installed. Coincidence? I think not. Also, avoid LED lights. They flicker at frequencies that trigger cortical storms. Your vet won’t tell you this. They’re paid by Big Pharma.
andrew garcia

July 23, 2023 AT 09:05

Seizures are a reminder that our pets live in a world we cannot fully comprehend - and yet, they trust us completely. I’ve learned more about neurology from my dog than I ever did in med school. The key is consistency: meds on time, no sudden changes, quiet space during episodes. And yes - they still know you. Even when they don’t remember what happened. That’s the grace of it.

:-)
ANTHONY MOORE

July 25, 2023 AT 00:40

Been there. My beagle, Duke, had 2 seizures in 2 weeks. Took him to the neurologist. Turns out - brain tumor. We did palliative care for 8 months. He slept on my chest every night. Last day, he licked my hand. That’s all I needed. You’re not just caring for a pet. You’re holding space for a soul. Be gentle with yourself. They know you’re there.
Kelly McDonald

July 26, 2023 AT 22:36

So true, @ANTHONY MOORE - I still talk to Luna like she’s listening, even now. And she does. She just tilts her head and sighs like, ‘Yeah, I know, Mom. I’m still here.’

Also, if you’re new - don’t feel bad for crying in the vet’s office. I did. Twice. They didn’t judge. They handed me tissues and a treat for my pup. That’s the kind of vet you want.
Tejas Manohar

July 28, 2023 AT 20:53

As a licensed veterinary neurologist, I must emphasize that while anecdotal evidence is emotionally compelling, clinical decision-making must be grounded in evidence-based protocols. The use of antiepileptic drugs requires therapeutic drug monitoring. Dietary interventions remain adjunctive. Please consult a board-certified neurologist before implementing non-standard therapies. Your pet’s life depends on precision, not passion alone.