Epilepsy in dogs: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

Epilepsy in dogs is a condition with a significant impact on both the animal and its family. A detailed understanding of the symptoms, causes, and treatment, as well as educating owners on how to manage seizures, helps improve the quality of life for affected animals.

Below, find out everything important you need to know about epilepsy in dogs.

• What is epilepsy in dogs
• Epilepsy in dogs - causes
• Symptoms of epilepsy in dogs
• Diagnosing epilepsy in dogs
• Treatment of epilepsy in dogs
• Preventing epilepsy in dogs

What is epilepsy in dogs

Epilepsy in dogs is a medical condition characterized by recurrent epileptic seizures, events triggered by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain. These pathological processes can affect the pet's consciousness, behavior, and bodily functions. Varying in intensity, these seizures can be associated with various manifestations, including convulsions, loss of consciousness, or abnormal behavior.

Epilepsy in dogs - causes

Epilepsy can affect dogs of any breed and age, and managing this condition requires a deep understanding of the causative factors.

Genetic factors

Epilepsy in dogs can have a genetic component, with certain breeds being more susceptible to this condition than others. Some of the popular breeds that may have a higher predisposition to epilepsy include Labradors, Beagles, German Shepherds, Cocker Spaniels, and Boxers.

The genetic inheritance of epilepsy varies in complexity. Certain bloodlines can transmit a particular predisposition to their offspring, and identifying these genetic connections is essential in the breeding and perpetuation process of breeds.

Are you planning to buy a purebred puppy? Discuss in detail with the breeder about the genetic tests of its parents and include in the puppy's kit dry junior food suitable for its size and age!

Head trauma

Head trauma can trigger epilepsy in dogs. Severe blows to the head can affect the normal electrical activity of the brain and cause permanent changes. Road accidents, falls from heights, and injuries associated with abuse cases are frequently present in the history of dogs affected by epilepsy.

Brain infections

Infections localized in the central nervous system can play an important role in the onset of epilepsy. Meningitis is the inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord. Viral and bacterial infections can affect normal brain function.

Encephalitis is the inflammation of the brain, generally caused by viral or bacterial factors. Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection more commonly associated with cats, but it can also occur in dogs and can lead to epileptic seizures.

Intoxications

Toxic substances ingested accidentally or inhaled can cause serious brain damage, leading to epileptic seizures. There are many types of intoxications that can cause seizures in dogs, but in some cases, nervous system damage persists even after the toxic substance is eliminated from the body.

If your dog has suffered a severe trauma, exhibits nervous symptoms, or signs of intoxication, contact a veterinarian immediately! For mild symptoms that are not medical emergencies, and for advice on general pet care, write to us and we will help you!

Symptoms of epilepsy in dogs

Probably the simplest way to discuss the symptoms of epilepsy is with the classic question: "Why do dogs foam at the mouth?"

There are several variables when it comes to epilepsy in dogs, which we will detail below.

Epileptic seizures - types of seizures

Epilepsy in dogs can manifest through several types of seizures, which are divided into two main categories:

• Focal (partial) seizures: these are seizures that affect a specific area of the brain and can cause uncontrolled movements only in a certain part of the dog's body, or they can be associated with behavioral changes;
• Generalized seizures: these are epileptic seizures that affect the entire brain, with the seizure being observable throughout the dog's body. Depending on the particularities of generalized seizures, they can be divided into clonic seizures (rhythmic and convulsive movements of the limbs), tonic-clonic seizures (begin with rigidity and evolve into convulsive movements), absence seizures (temporary loss of consciousness, in the absence of convulsions).

Epileptic seizures - frequency of seizures

The frequency of epileptic seizures can vary significantly from one dog to another. Some animal patients may experience rare seizures; others have more frequent episodes, sometimes several times a day. Monitoring and recording the frequency of seizures is essential for establishing treatment.

Behavioral changes

It is relatively common for epilepsy in dogs to affect their behavior, both during and after seizures.

Postictal confusion is a state of confusion, disorientation, or lethargy that follows a seizure. The duration and intensity of this period of confusion can vary significantly.

Some dogs show changes in behavior even before a seizure. These symptoms are generally referred to as an aura and may include anxiety, repetitive movements, or other changes in usual behavior.

Changes in daily activity

Epilepsy can affect the dog's daily routine, its usual activities, and interactions with the owner and family. Some dogs have problems walking or running, exhibiting temporary weakness or ataxia. Other individuals have difficulty eating after seizures, either due to confusion or as a result of physical discomfort.

Other signs associated with epilepsy can include migraines, changes in appetite and weight, as a result of meal schedule disruption.

Sometimes, changes in appetite can have simpler and benign causes, such as indigestion. Discover everything you need to know about indigestion and do not hesitate to consult a veterinarian if you notice persistent changes in your dog's general condition!

The symptoms of epilepsy, especially in individuals with a high frequency of seizures, are marked enough to affect the pet's quality of life.

Diagnosing epilepsy in dogs

Diagnosing epilepsy in dogs is a complex process that includes several stages.

Veterinary consultation

A precise diagnosis of epilepsy in dogs begins with a detailed veterinary consultation. Owners must provide honest and as detailed information as possible regarding the dog's medical history, including observed seizures and their details.

The veterinary consultation also involves a detailed physical examination to rule out other health problems that might be associated with similar symptoms.

Blood tests and diagnostic tests

Blood tests are often included in the diagnostic process to assess the dog's general health and to rule out other causes of the symptoms. These tests usually include a complete blood count and a biochemical profile to check the functioning of internal organs, especially the liver and kidneys.

If the veterinarian identifies a kidney problem, they will recommend supplements for urinary conditions which, along with appropriate treatment, will improve the dog's condition.

Brain imaging

Brain imaging, such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, can both be useful for detecting structural abnormalities or brain lesions that may be associated with epilepsy.

Electroencephalogram

An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a procedure that records the electrical activity of the brain and can help confirm the presence of aberrant electrical activity associated with epilepsy. The method is less specific than in humans because many individuals can have normal electrical activity during some seizures.

Diagnosing epilepsy in dogs requires a complex approach that integrates information obtained from medical history, veterinary consultation, blood tests, medical imaging, and, sometimes, EEG. However, a precise diagnosis is important to establish effective treatment.

Treatment of epilepsy in dogs

The treatment of epilepsy in dogs depends greatly on the type and frequency of seizures and the changes recorded during the investigations performed.

Phenobarbital in dogs - effects and success of drug treatment

Phenobarbital is one of the most common anti-epileptic medications for dogs, but it is not the only solution. The administration of phenobarbital in dogs aims to reduce abnormal electrical activity in the brain and is often prescribed as a long-term treatment, in regular doses.

When necessary, there are other types of epilepsy pills for dogs, used for better control of the pathology:

• Potassium bromide is a solution usually reserved for cases where phenobarbital is not effective enough;
• Zonisamide and levetiracetam are compounds that can be used to control seizures, either alone or in combination with other medications;
• Primidone is an anticonvulsant agent that can be prescribed depending on the individual dog's response.

The administration of these medications is carried out under the guidance of a veterinarian, at the minimum effective dose. Adjusting the dose and treatment regimen is a long-term process, intended to achieve a formula with minimal impact on the body, but with good control of seizures.

Dietary therapy

Diet can play an important role in managing epilepsy in dogs. If you are wondering what a puppy with epilepsy should eat, diets with a high fat content and a low carbohydrate content seem to be the most recommended. This is the equivalent of the human ketogenic diet, which seems to help reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures.

If you decide to make changes to your dog's diet, discover our wide range of veterinary diets and choose the right product for your furry friend's specific problem!

Complementary therapy

In addition to drug treatment and the recommendation of an appropriate diet, there are also some complementary therapies that seem to bring some benefits. Acupuncture helps reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger seizures. Therapy with essential oils of lavender or thyme can have calming effects. Relaxation exercises can also help reduce the frequency of seizures.

Emergency seizure management

If the dog suffers a seizure, owners must be prepared to manage the situation appropriately.

First, it is essential to secure the space so that the dog does not injure itself during moments of crisis. Recording the duration of seizures can be helpful for the veterinarian to adjust treatment details. If we are talking about severe or prolonged seizures, emergency veterinary assistance is mandatory.

Preventing epilepsy in dogs

Preventing epilepsy in dogs is not always possible, despite the owner's involvement and desire. However, there are a number of measures that can be taken to reduce the individual risk of specific seizures.

A correct and up-to-date vaccination program can help prevent conditions whose complications could lead to epilepsy or other neurological diseases.

Some toxic substances can affect the central nervous system of dogs and contribute to the development of epilepsy. Owners should strictly control dogs' access to toxic houseplants, cleaning products, garden chemicals, and so on.

Preventing head trauma is extremely important. Active supervision of the dog during outdoor activities, in the presence of other animals or in crowded areas, can prevent accidents. Eliminating dangerous objects from the dog's living environment and correctly using equipment during walks are equally important.

Extensive knowledge about epilepsy in dogs is essential for any owner, so they can collaborate effectively with the veterinarian for a good quality of life for the dog. With correct diagnosis and treatment, affected dogs can lead long and happy lives, which is why we encourage owners to be proactive when it comes to the health of their pets.

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