Epilepsy in dogs
What is epilepsy in dogs?
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures in dogs. These seizures can best be compared to a temporary electrical disturbance caused by an overload in (part of) the dog’s brain.
Types and causes of epilepsy in dogs
Broadly speaking, there are two types of epilepsy: primary and secondary epilepsy.
Primary epilepsy
Primary epilepsy is the most common form of epilepsy in dogs. With this type of epilepsy, no underlying cause can be identified. Primary epilepsy often first appears in dogs between 6 months and 5 years of age. The seizures are often similar in appearance, and between seizures, the dog behaves normally and appears healthy.
Secondary epilepsy
Secondary epilepsy is a form of epilepsy in which an underlying cause can be identified. These abnormalities may be congenital or develop later in life, for example due to a tumour, haemorrhage, trauma, etc. Severe liver, kidney or brain disease, as well as poisoning, can also cause this form of epilepsy. Given the possible causes of secondary epilepsy, it is more commonly seen in older dogs.
Symptoms of epilepsy
How can you recognise an epileptic seizure in your dog? Pay close attention to the symptoms during the three phases of a seizure:
Phase 1 – Aura (before the seizure)
Also known as the ‘aura’ phase. Many owners miss this phase because the signs can be very subtle. The dog may be calmer than usual or, conversely, more restless. Most dogs become more affectionate and seek more attention. They may also have a dazed or vacant look in their eyes. This phase can last for a few seconds, but can also continue for several days.
Phase 2 – Ictus (during the seizure)
The seizure itself, also known as the ‘ictus’ phase. This phase can last for several minutes and can look very frightening and alarming. Try not to panic; it often looks more distressing than it actually is for your dog. You may see the following:
- collapsing and loss of consciousness
- severe muscle spasms, with the entire body becoming stiff; the dog may paddle with its legs
- jaw chomping; please note that the dog may bite forcefully and involuntarily
- foaming at the mouth
- loss of urine and/or faeces
- crying, yelping, whining or whimpering
If your dog is in this phase, it is important to remove all stimuli immediately (turn off the lights, TV and radio, do not talk to your dog, and place a blanket over its head). Again, do not get too close to your dog’s jaws. Move furniture out of the way to prevent your dog from injuring itself. Do not touch your dog, as any additional stimulation may trigger a response. Under no circumstances should you administer medication by mouth.
If you feel able to do so, make notes or record the seizure and share this information with your veterinarian.
If the seizure lasts longer than 2 minutes, immediate medication is required. If your dog has already been diagnosed with epilepsy, the owner will often have this medication at home. It should be administered rectally. Always contact a veterinarian immediately.
Phase 3 – Post-ictal phase (after the seizure)
This is the phase that most owners find the most distressing. It can last anywhere from a few seconds to several days. The dog may be restless, whiny, extremely hungry, and may not recognise its owner. This can cause some dogs to become fearful of their owner. It may appear as though the dog is walking around in a nightmare. Due to fear and confusion, the dog may also react aggressively.
It is important to remember that once all the phases have passed, the dog will not remember what happened.
Diagnosing epilepsy
How we diagnose epilepsy depends in part on the age at which the dog first develops seizures. We always start with comprehensive blood tests. Sometimes an underlying condition, such as a portosystemic shunt (liver shunt), can cause seizures. If the blood tests do not reveal a clear cause, your dog will be referred to a veterinary neurologist. An MRI scan is often recommended as part of the further investigation.
What is the treatment for epilepsy?
If the epilepsy is not secondary to another underlying condition, medication to control the seizures may be started in consultation with you. Examples include Pexion or Phenobarbital. This medication can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
If the epilepsy is secondary to another condition, we will of course treat the underlying cause whenever possible.
Follow-up care for epilepsy
If your dog has been diagnosed with epilepsy and treatment with medication has been started, we recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment. Finding the right dosage is not always straightforward, as every dog responds differently to medication.
We therefore recommend a follow-up appointment two months after the diagnosis to assess how your dog is doing and, if necessary, adjust the medication dosage.
Prognosis
The prognosis for dogs with epilepsy varies. If the seizures can be controlled and the dog maintains a good quality of life, many dogs can live a long and fulfilling life with epilepsy.
However, some dogs do not respond well to treatment and continue to experience seizures frequently. In some cases, the post-ictal phase can also have such a significant impact that the dog’s quality of life is considerably reduced. Euthanasia may, in some cases, be the only and kindest option for the animal. We will, of course, provide you with the appropriate information, support and guidance throughout this process.
When is a seizure an emergency?
An epileptic seizure is considered an emergency when:
- your dog has more than three seizures within 24 hours
- a seizure lasts continuously for more than ten minutes
In the above situations, you should contact a veterinarian immediately.
If a seizure lasts longer than two minutes, you can provide first aid by administering diazepam rectally (often available as Stesolid). If your dog does not respond quickly, contact a veterinarian urgently.
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