Canine Idiopathic Epilepsy

A term that refers to a seizure disorder of unknown cause, idiopathic epilepsy is sometimes called congenital or genetic epilepsy. Idiopathic epilepsy can be a frightening and frustrating condition for pet owners to handle.

  1. Occurrence

    • Idiopathic epilepsy affects all dog breeds, including those of mixed breeds. No breed or age group is affected more often than others.

    Diagnosis

    • Veterinarians analyze blood, urine and feces to diagnose canines with idiopathic epilepsy.

    Symptoms

    • The most common symptom of idiopathic epilepsy in canines is seizure, which may include any combination of the following: involuntary movement, twitching, barking, chomping and urinary and/or fecal incontinence.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for dogs suffering from idiopathic epilepsy is limited, and typically includes the administration of anti-convulsant drugs.

    Breeding

    • Idiopathic epilepsy is a genetic condition. To prevent the suffering of future generations, you shouldn't breed a dog with idiopathic epilepsy.