Epileptic Seizures in Dogs

According to the Epilepsy Foundation, epilepsy is a medical condition that produces seizures affecting a variety of mental and physical functions. This condition is found in both humans and pets. Epilepsy can be found in dogs as young as 6 months old.

  1. Causes

    • There are several causes for seizures in dogs such as tumors, kidney and liver disorders, infections, brain damage and toxins. Other causes include low oxygen levels in the blood or blood glucose levels that are too high.

    Types

    • According to Peteducation.com, there are several types of seizures in dogs. A dog could have a partial seizure that only affects part of the body, a generalized seizure that affects the whole body or a grand mal, which is the most severe type of seizure.

    Identification

    • It is not hard to identify when your pet is having a seizure. Most pets will seek out help and comfort from their owners before the seizure occurs. Your dog will not become violent during a seizure.

    Diagnosis

    • If you think your dog has epilepsy, your veterinarian will need information from you on your dog's health, history and activity level, and also details of the seizures you have witnessed.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Epilepsy is not curable. However, there are several oral medications that can reduce the frequency and number of seizures.