Diabetes & Seizures in Dogs

Not all dogs that have seizures have epilepsy. One common cause of seizures in dogs is the onset of diabetes. Your pet must be carefully monitored at home, and may require insulin to prevent seizures.

  1. Identification

    • If your dog develops diabetes, the most reliable way to keep a check on their blood glucose levels is with a blood glucose meter. Diabetes in dogs will usually require insulin to help manage the disease.

    Effects

    • Seizures are convulsions or attacks that come on suddenly with no warning. The causes of seizures in dogs can be a brain tumor, ingestion of toxic substances, epilepsy, and metabolic disorders such as diabetes, kidney failure, or liver failure.

    Potential

    • Dogs that take insulin can have seizures from an insulin overdose. An insulin overdose can result in low blood sugar that can cause seizures.

    Considerations

    • It is important to have your dog seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible after experiencing a seizure. This will ensure proper diagnosis and management of the disease.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Be sure to follow your veterinarian's treatment plan for your pet. This will help to avoid any complications from diabetes and insulin administration, and will help reduce the number of seizures your dog has.