Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that affects the brain, characterized by recurrent seizures without a discernible cause. It is estimated to impact approximately 0.75% of dogs. A seizure is triggered by excessive electrical activity in the brain’s cortex. In dogs diagnosed with epilepsy, the brain structure appears normal, but abnormal electrical impulses are present. This condition, also known as primary epilepsy or idiopathic epilepsy, is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning it’s only confirmed after all other potential causes for seizures have been ruled out. These abnormal electrical impulses originate in a specific area of the brain, known as the “seizure focus,” and then spread throughout, leading to involuntary movements and a loss of consciousness. This surge of electrical activity can manifest as twitching, shaking, tremors, and convulsions. For owners concerned about unusual behaviors in their pets, understanding dog skin problems can be crucial, though distinct from neurological events like seizures.
Types of Seizures in Dogs
Seizures, which are neurological events, can sometimes be mistaken for fainting spells, which are cardiovascular events. Seizures can be categorized into three distinct phases:
- Aura: This is the pre-seizure phase, during which a dog may exhibit signs of anxiety, fear, or seek more attention, indicating they sense an impending seizure. These subtle behaviors can sometimes go unrecognized by pet parents.
- Ictal: This phase is the seizure itself, typically lasting one to two minutes. However, immediate veterinary attention is required if a seizure persists for more than five minutes.
- Post-ictal: The post-ictal phase is characterized by disorientation, a hallmark of seizures. During this period, the dog may appear confused or even blind. This disorientation can range from a few minutes to several hours. In contrast, dogs that have fainted typically return to normal within seconds without any post-episode disorientation.
Recognizing the different types of seizures can significantly aid veterinarians in diagnosis. The main categories include:
- Generalized (Grand Mal) Seizures: This is the most prevalent type of seizure in dogs. It typically involves the dog collapsing onto its side, losing consciousness, extending its limbs stiffly, and experiencing convulsions or violent shaking. The dog might urinate or defecate, hold its breath, drool excessively, or make chewing motions. While all epileptic seizures are grand mal, not all grand mal seizures are indicative of epilepsy, as other underlying causes can also result in this seizure type. Understanding common skin problems on dogs is a different area of concern for pet owners.
- Partial (Focal) Seizures: Also referred to as partial motor seizures, these seizures manifest as abnormal movements confined to a specific part of the body, such as the face or a single limb. However, partial seizures can sometimes escalate into generalized seizures. Differentiating partial seizures is important because they often indicate an underlying cause and are not typically associated with primary epilepsy. A classic example is the “chewing gum” seizure, where the dog appears conscious but exhibits involuntary chewing motions.
- Complex Partial Seizures: These are a subset of focal seizures, sometimes called psychomotor or behavioral seizures. They resemble episodes of abnormal behavior rather than physical tremors or convulsions. The dog remains conscious but may act erratically, exhibiting signs of hysteria or rage, or seemingly experiencing hallucinations. The “fly-biting” seizure, where the dog appears to chase and bite at imaginary flies, is a common illustration of this type.
Symptoms of Epilepsy in Dogs
Key clinical signs that may indicate a seizure include:
- Stiffening of the body and limbs
- Collapse and falling onto the side
- Involuntary chewing motions
- Excessive drooling
- Paddling movements of the legs
- Inappropriate urination
- Involuntary defecation
- Vocalizations during the event
- Violent shaking, trembling, and convulsions
Causes of Epilepsy in Dogs
As epilepsy is a diagnosis of exclusion, veterinarians must rule out all known causes of seizures before diagnosing epilepsy. The initial seizure in dogs with primary epilepsy typically occurs between six months and five years of age. Epilepsy may have a hereditary component in certain breeds, with recognized genetic predispositions in Beagles, Dachshunds, German Shepherds, Keeshonds, and Belgian Tervurens. Additionally, some breeds exhibit a high incidence of epilepsy without a clear genetic link.
How Veterinarians Diagnose Epilepsy in Dogs
The initial step in diagnosis is to confirm that the event was indeed a seizure. Pet parents can greatly assist by videotaping the episode and maintaining a detailed log that includes any signs of an aura, a description of the seizure itself, its duration, and the length of the post-ictal phase.
Dogs experiencing their first seizure should be evaluated by a veterinarian immediately. A comprehensive history, physical examination, and a thorough neurological assessment will be conducted. Routine blood work, including a complete blood count, serum chemistry panel, and urinalysis, are typically recommended to establish baseline health and help rule out other potential causes. Chest X-rays and an abdominal ultrasound may also be advised.
If initial tests are inconclusive, a veterinarian might suspect epilepsy and may recommend a referral to a veterinary neurologist. Further advanced diagnostics, such as bile acid testing, MRI, or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, may be pursued. If all diagnostic tests remain negative, epilepsy may then be diagnosed. For owners dealing with various health concerns, researching my dog have skin problem can be part of general pet health awareness.
Treatment of Epilepsy in Dogs
Epilepsy is a chronic condition that cannot be cured but can be effectively managed, usually requiring lifelong daily medication. The selection of the appropriate anti-epileptic drug for your dog will depend on various factors and will be determined by your veterinarian.
The four most commonly prescribed medications include:
- Phenobarbital
- Potassium Bromide
- Levetiracetam (Keppra)
- Zonisamide
Often, a combination of anti-seizure medications is prescribed to achieve better seizure control. This may include medications such as gabapentin (Neurontin) or pregabalin (Lyrica). The primary goal of treatment is to reduce the frequency of seizures, as complete elimination is not always possible. Seizure control is generally considered achieved if the dog experiences less than one seizure every three months.
The following criteria indicate an EMERGENCY, and you should take your dog to a veterinary emergency hospital immediately:
- A single seizure lasting longer than five minutes.
- Cluster seizures, where one seizure follows another with little or no recovery time in between. This can be life-threatening.
- Experiencing more than three seizures within a 24-hour period.
Epileptic patients may present with emergency criteria at the onset of their diagnosis and treatment, or they might experience breakthrough seizures while undergoing treatment. It is vital to understand that seizures can increase the likelihood of future seizures. If your dog’s seizures are not well-controlled, regular follow-up with your veterinarian is essential. Understanding types of dog skin conditions is another area where vigilant observation is key for pet health.
Recovery and Management of Epilepsy in Dogs
Witnessing a dog have a seizure can be a frightening and emotionally distressing experience for owners. However, you are not alone, as many pet parents share similar anxieties about their dog’s long-term health prognosis. With appropriate medication, most dogs with epilepsy can lead normal and fulfilling lives. Adhering strictly to your dog’s medication schedule—ensuring timely administration and avoiding missed doses—is paramount for successful epilepsy management, in close collaboration with your veterinarian.
Periodic follow-up appointments may be necessary depending on the specific medications prescribed. Some dogs might require medication adjustments over time if breakthrough seizures occur.
Epilepsy in Dogs FAQs
What can trigger a dog’s epilepsy?
Stress is the most frequently reported trigger for seizures in epileptic pets. If you identify a potential trigger, discuss it with your veterinarian, along with any possible alternative strategies to avoid it.
How long can dogs live with epilepsy?
Provided their seizures are well-controlled through medication, epileptic dogs can live relatively normal lives with lifespans comparable to healthy dogs.
What age does epilepsy start in dogs?
Dogs typically experience their first seizure between the ages of six months and five years. For comprehensive care, understanding dog skin conditions and treatments is also important for overall well-being.
References
Heske L, Berendt M, Jäderlund KH, Egenvall A, Nødtvedt A. Validation of the diagnosis canine epilepsy in a Swedish animal insurance database against practice records. Preventive Veterinary Medicine. 2014;114(3-4):145-150.
Lorenz MD and Kornegay JN. Handbook of Veterinary Neurology. 4th edition. Elsevier Saunders, 2004.
Featured Image: iStock.com/mediaphotos
WRITTEN BY
Veronica Higgs, DVM
Veterinarian
Dr. Veronica Higgs is a 2010 graduate from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. She then completed a 1-year rotating…
