Epilepsy in Dogs

Dogs that suffer from seizures may have a condition called epilepsy. Epilepsy can be inherited or can be caused by outside factors. Idiopathic epilepsy is the condition that is thought to be inherited (genetic), and secondary epilepsy is the condition for which the seizures are caused by something else like an infection or a toxin.

Signs of Epilepsy

Seizures occur in four stages. In the first stage (called “prodome”), the dog shows a change in mood or behavior. In the second stage (called “aura”), he shows obvious signs such as trembling, pacing, whining, hiding, wandering, vomiting or barking excessively and trying to get his owner’s attention. In the third stage (called “ictus”), the dog suffers the seizure, but the seizure could be different for different dogs.

Some may just stare into space; others may lose consciousness; others might lay on the floor and paddle their legs like they’re running in their sleep; others might lose control of their bowels. Some dogs were even known to run in circles or seize in just one area of the body, like twitching in the face.

In the final stage of the seizure (called “ictal”), as the seizure resolves, dogs might show odd behavior such as acting drunk or doped. He might also pace again or drink a lot of water. While others may appear exhausted and fall to sleep with fatigue.

Causes of Secondary Epilepsy

When epilepsy is not an inherited condition, outside influences can be causing the dog’s seizures. Possible causes include:  toxin poisoning such as that from arsenic, fertilizer, poisonous plants or lead (from chewing on lead paint), other disease or infection such as a brain tumor or  encephalitis, which is a swelling of the brain, thyroid problems, low blood sugar, trauma to the head, or even parasites.

Treatment for Epilepsy

For secondary epilepsy, finding the cause and preventing the dog’s exposure to that cause will help prevent future seizures. For dogs with an inherited condition, medication such as primadone, valium, Phenobarbital, among others can help him live a comfortable life by controlling or stopping seizures.

If your dog suffers from seizures, your veterinarian can help you understand the causes and the treatments available either to prevent a seizure or stop one that has started. He or she can also help you understand how to observe and record (in a journal) your dog’s behavior before a seizure so you can recognize one before it becomes full blown. Once you can recognize the signs and know how to treat your dog and keep him comfortable, you’ll be able to help prevent a seizure or minimize the stress caused by one.