Witnessing your dog in the midst of a seizure is undeniably frightening. There are various causes of seizures in dogs, among them injury, hereditary disorders and disease. Certain toxins, including some flea treatments, are known to lower the threshold for these seizures.
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Identification
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Seizures are a symptom of a neurological disorder--specifically, an abnormal burst of uncontrolled brain activity. The resulting physical response can vary widely, from falling over with glazed eyes and extreme trembling to a short-lived period of snapping at air.
Causes
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Canine seizures can be caused by trauma, genetics, metabolic disorders and toxins. Certain factors can lower the seizure threshold, including blood sugar levels, inflammation, disease and poisoning.
Flea Treatments
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Flea treatments come from a wide variety of insecticides, including pyrethrins, pyrethroids, metaflumizone, fipronil and imidacloprid. While the ingredients are generally regarded as safe, some dogs do experience a sensitivity to them that can result in seizures.
Safety
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Dogs with a seizure disorder should avoid toxins, such as insecticide-based flea treatments, which are known to cause seizures. Consult your veterinarian to determine the safest course of action for flea and tick treatment.
Options
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Dr. Roger Clemmons at the University of Florida Veterinary School says Frontline might be a safer flea and tick repellent for seizure-prone dogs. Veterinarian Allen Schoen suggests that seizure-prone dogs be provided supplemental vitamins C, E, Selenium and B6 to help reduce the overall incidence of seizures.
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