A seizure, also called a convulsion, is the clinical manifestation of excessive and abnormal electrical activity in the cerebral cortex of the brain. Epilepsy refers to recurrent seizure activity, which may be acquired (such as from a brain tumor or scar tissue) or idiopathic (which means of unknown origin).Seizures in domestic dogs can be caused by either intracranial (inside the skull) or extracranial abnormalities. Intracranial causes of seizures include genetic disorders, infection (viral, fungal or
There are a number of different conditions that may lead to change of mental status or changes in body muscle activity.Generalized seizures are the most worrisome to observe. Generalized seizures are uncoordinated spasms of muscles that produce very significant movement of body, head and limbs. The animal will be down and twitch uncontrollably. Often, a pet will pass the bowels or urine, and may salivate and vocalize. A simple seizure is over in a couple
Dogs can be very active in their sleep. Just as with people, dogs have dreaming cycles during sleep and sometimes, dreams can produce significant body movement. In the case of dog breeds with very long legs, dreaming actions may resemble seizures.
Seizures vs. Dreams
If a dog is dreaming of running, rapid full limb motions can occur but during sleep the limbs may be quite uncoordinated giving the false impression of seizure-type activity. The dog’s head may
Owners of dogs suffering from seizures live with the constant fear that at some point their pet will have another “episode.” Chronic seizure conditions can be managed with medication, but from time to time a pet may still have a seizure despite medical therapy. There are some conditions that can make a dog more prone to having a seizure, and if your pet has a seizure condition there are some things that you can do
Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical impulses in the cortex of the brain. These impulses cause a combination of uncontrollable, involuntary and excessive or reduced muscle activities. There are a number of different causes of seizures in domestic dogs. However, the symptoms are fairly classic and easily recognizable.Seizures tend to be transient and to start and stop abruptly. Most generalized seizures (also called “grand mal” seizures) start with a period of altered behavior, called the
Seizure disorders are not particularly difficult to detect. The difficult part is determining the cause of the seizures.Presented with a dog suspected of having a seizure disorder, most veterinarians will recommend a complete blood count, serum biochemistry panel and urinalysis, after obtaining a complete history of the dog’s symptoms and conducting thorough physical and neurological examinations. The results of the blood and urine tests may reveal metabolic disorders, intoxication, liver or kidney disease or
When a dog has a seizure, its owner is typically and understandably scared and confused. Watching a loved one have a seizure is heartbreaking, but fortunately a number of treatment options are available, depending upon the seizure’s cause. Treatment protocols for dogs with seizure disorders are evolving, and there are many new medications in development to help manage these difficult medical conditions in companion animals. The goals of treating seizure disorders are to reduce seizure