Epilepsy is a relatively common condition in dogs and can present in different ways depending on the type, frequency, and severity of the seizures. While it might seem overwhelming at first, understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatments available can help you support your dog and ensure they live a full, happy, and healthy life.

This guide covers everything you need to know about dogs and epilepsy, from diagnosis to long-term management.

What is Epilepsy in Dogs?

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder where a dog experiences repeated, unprovoked seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. These seizures can vary in intensity, from mild twitching or muscle spasms to full-body convulsions, and can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. In some cases, the seizures may be more frequent or severe, making management even more critical.

Epilepsy is the most common neurological condition seen in dogs. While it can be distressing for both the dog and their owner, most dogs with epilepsy live normal lives with appropriate medical management. There are several types of epilepsy, and getting the right diagnosis early is essential for proper treatment and care.

What Causes Epilepsy in Dogs?

Epileptic seizures in dogs happen when there's a sudden, excessive burst of electrical activity in the brain. This abnormal electrical surge disrupts normal brain function, leading to the physical symptoms we associate with seizures, such as twitching, drooling, or loss of consciousness. These disruptions can be brief or prolonged and can vary significantly in intensity.

There are several types of epilepsy in dogs, which are classified based on their underlying cause, ranging from genetic conditions to secondary causes such as brain injuries or infections:

• Idiopathic epilepsy
• Symptomatic epilepsy
• Cryptogenic epilepsy
• Focal epilepsy
• Cluster epilepsy
• Status epilepticus

Idiopathic Epilepsy

Idiopathic epilepsy in dogs is the most common form and typically has no identifiable cause. It's often inherited, and in many cases, it begins between 1 and 5 years of age. This form is usually referred to as "primary epilepsy".

Symptomatic Epilepsy

Symptomatic epilepsy refers to seizures that are caused by an identifiable problem within the brain itself. This could include a brain tumour, inflammation or infection affecting the brain, or congenital conditions like hydrocephalus. These structural issues disrupt normal brain function and trigger seizures.

Cryptogenic Epilepsy

Cryptogenic epilepsy is the term used when a dog's seizures are suspected to have an underlying cause, but that cause hasn't yet been identified through testing.

In addition to cause-based classifications, epilepsy can also be described by the type of seizure a dog experiences.

Focal Epilepsy

Focal epilepsy in dogs starts in one area of the brain. It causes seizures only affecting part of the body, such as the face, a single limb, or one side. These seizures may appear as twitching, repetitive movements, or odd behaviour. Focal seizures are not always immediately noticeable and, in some cases, can evolve into generalised seizures, where the entire body is affected.

Cluster Epilepsy

Cluster epilepsy in dogs refers to multiple seizures occurring within a 24-hour period, which can be highly distressing for both the dog and their owner.

Status Epilepticus

Status epilepticus is a serious and life-threatening condition where seizures affect the entire body and last more than five minutes or occur one after another without a recovery period in between. Status epilepticus can cause permanent brain damage or even death if not treated immediately, so urgent medical attention is crucial.

Some types of seizures, like focal seizures, only affect part of the body and can be harder to spot, so observing your dog closely and noting any unusual behaviour is important.

What Are the Symptoms of Epilepsy in Dogs?

The symptoms of epilepsy in dogs can vary widely depending on the type of seizure. Epilepsy in dogs symptoms include collapsing, paddling limbs, twitching, drooling, loss of consciousness, and, in some cases, vocalising.

Dogs may appear dazed or confused before or after a seizure - this is known as the pre-ictal and post-ictal phase.

The pre-ictal phase, also called the aura, is the period leading up to a seizure. It can last seconds or hours and may involve restlessness, pacing, whining, excessive salivation or clinginess. This phase is thought to reflect abnormal brain activity before the physical seizure occurs.

The post-ictal phase occurs immediately after the seizure has ended. During this time, dogs can appear disoriented, uncoordinated, temporarily blind or extremely tired. They may pace aimlessly, seem confused, or have trouble standing or walking. This phase can last from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the individual dog and the severity of the seizure.

Other epilepsy symptoms might be more subtle, especially with focal seizures. These may look like your dog is snapping at the air, staring into space or having facial twitches.

If your dog has a seizure, it's crucial to contact your vet right away, especially if they've had more than one in a 24-hour period. Seizures that last longer than five minutes or occur in clusters are a medical emergency.

Can Epilepsy Be Cured in Dogs?

While it usually cannot be cured, the treatment for epilepsy in dogs can be very effective with the right approach.

Canine epilepsy can be managed successfully to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. Your vet may recommend starting anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) if your dog has frequent seizures or if they are severe.

Dog epilepsy medication, such as phenobarbital or potassium bromide, is required long-term to keep seizures under control. Your vet will choose a medication based on your dog's size, health status, and type of epilepsy. Side effects may include drowsiness, increased appetite, and unsteadiness, but these usually lessen over time as your dog adjusts to the medication.

To ensure your dog responds well to treatment, your vet may carry out blood and urine tests to monitor drug levels and check for side effects. In some cases, a sample of cerebrospinal fluid may be collected to rule out other brain diseases.

It's a great idea to keep a seizure diary, where you log each seizure's date, time, duration, and type. This helps your vet adjust treatment plans and monitor patterns over time.

Living With an Epileptic Dog

While it can be worrying to see your dog have seizures, the good news is that most dogs with epilepsy respond well to treatment and can live happy, fulfilling lives.

With the right dog epilepsy medication, regular vet visits, and close monitoring, you can help your dog maintain a good quality of life.

Keeping a seizure diary and working closely with your vet will help tailor treatment to your dog's specific needs and ensure the best possible care.

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