The Signs of Pre-Seizure in Dogs

Seizures can afflict dogs of any age or breed, and sometimes happen unexpectedly to otherwise healthy animals. If your dog experiences a seizure, it can be a frightening experience, especially if you aren't sure what is happening or how to respond. Becoming familiar with early signs of a seizure will help you to recognize the onset of an episode so you can provide your dog with immediate care.

  1. Pre-existing Risk Factors

    • Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help diagnose and treat conditions likely to cause seizures.

      Be sure to take your dog to a veterinarian for regular check-ups. There are many underlying health issues that can cause seizures in dogs, including epilepsy, kidney or liver disorders, diabetes, or a brain tumor. Some breeds are more prone to a particular health condition. Your veterinarian may be able to detect an illness early and prescribe a medication to control it, lowering the chance of a seizure.

    Physical Signs of a Seizure

    • Some dogs show signs of a coming seizure a few hours to several minutes before an episode. They may become unusually anxious or restless. They may pace, whine or hide. Some dogs may begin to salivate excessively. Not all dogs will show signs.

      At this stage, it is important to do your best to stay calm, and watch your dog carefully, being sure to clear the area of objects that could potentially harm your dog during the episode.

    Environmental Signs of a Seizure

    • Accidental ingestion of poisonous household chemicals can cause seizures in dogs.

      Canine seizures occasionally are caused by an accident or injury. Ingestion of chemicals such as antifreeze, household cleaners or poisonous plants or animals can result in a seizure. If you see the harmful item that is causing the episode, remove it immediately out of the reach of your dog.

      Also check for any injury to your dog, especially the head because trauma to the brain may be causing the seizure. In either of these cases, contact a veterinarian immediately for emergency care.

    Signs During a Seizure

    • A dog usually begins a seizure just minutes after showing pre-seizure signs. He may collapse, convulse, vomit or excrete. To avoid accidental injury, don't get too close to your dog. Instead, keep track of the symptoms and the duration. Most seizures last less than five minutes. If the episode lasts longer, contact a veterinarian immediately. In most cases, your dog will recover with some disorientation for the next day or so. Take him to a veterinarian soon after for examination.