What are Canine Seizures?
Canine seizures are episodes of abnormal electrical activity in a dog’s brain that lead to involuntary muscle activity. Seizures usually last from 30 seconds to 2 minutes. There are two main types of seizures in dogs:
Grand Mal Seizures – Also known as tonic-clonic seizures. These involve loss of consciousness, muscle rigidity, and violent muscle contractions. The dog will fall on their side and paddle their legs as if running. They may urinate or defecate involuntarily.
Petit Mal Seizures – Also known as absence seizures. These involve brief lapses of consciousness without falling or convulsions. The dog may stare blankly for several seconds before resuming normal activity.
Common causes of seizures in dogs include:
- Head trauma or brain tumors
- Low blood sugar
- Liver or kidney disease
- Infections like meningitis, encephalitis, or rabies
- Toxins like lead, poisonous plants, or pesticides
- Genetic conditions like epilepsy
If your dog is having seizures, take them to the vet for a full medical workup to determine the underlying cause.
Diagnosing the Cause
If your dog is experiencing seizures, it’s critical to get a proper veterinary diagnosis to identify any underlying condition causing the seizures. While seizures may seem like a condition in themselves, they are actually a symptom of an underlying neurological issue.
Your veterinarian will perform a full physical exam on your dog and obtain a thorough history of your dog’s health and any recent changes. Diagnostic testing will likely include bloodwork, urinalysis, imaging such as x-rays or an MRI, and possibly a cerebrospinal fluid analysis.
It’s important not to assume all seizures are idiopathic epilepsy without a full veterinary workup. There are many possible causes including metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, toxins, brain tumors, head trauma, and more. Even idiopathic epilepsy usually has a genetic component. Getting the right diagnosis will allow your vet to prescribe any necessary medications and help you better manage your dog’s condition.
Conventional Treatment
The most common conventional treatment for canine seizures is anti-seizure medications, also known as anticonvulsants or anti-epileptic drugs. These medications work by reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures. Some commonly prescribed anti-seizure medications for dogs include phenobarbital, potassium bromide, levetiracetam, and zonisamide.
When starting an anti-seizure medication, your veterinarian will recommend beginning with a low dose and gradually increasing it until therapeutic levels are reached. It can take 3-4 weeks for the medication to reach optimal levels in the blood and have its full effect. Your vet will likely recommend periodic blood tests to measure medication levels and monitor liver or kidney function.
As with any medication, anti-seizure drugs can cause side effects. Common side effects include increased thirst, increased urination, increased appetite, and sedation. More severe side effects like liver damage are possible but uncommon. Work closely with your vet to find the most effective seizure medication for your dog with the fewest side effects.
Lifestyle Changes
Making healthy lifestyle changes is one of the most natural ways to potentially reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs. Focus on these key areas:
Reducing Stress
High levels of stress can be a seizure trigger for some dogs. Create a calm, relaxing environment by using pheromone diffusers or calming treats, playing soothing music, and minimizing loud noises. Establish a predictable routine with regular feeding times and ample opportunities for rest. Consider avoiding high-stress activities like crowded environments or travel during seizure-prone periods.
Ensuring Proper Nutrition
Provide a nutritious, balanced diet formulated specifically for your dog’s age and activity level. Consult your vet on foods and supplements that may help, like omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil. Avoid sudden food changes, and limit unhealthy treats. Make sure your dog stays hydrated with access to fresh water at all times.
Daily Exercise
Regular exercise can help relieve stress and maintain a healthy weight. Take your dog for daily leash walks and playtime. Swimming and light activity like fetching are excellent low-impact options. Avoid overexertion during hot weather or high pollen count days. Gauge your dog’s limits, since too much exercise can also trigger seizures in some dogs.
Herbal Supplements
Certain herbal supplements may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs when used appropriately. Some of the most commonly used herbal remedies include:
CBD Oil
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil has gained popularity for treating various health conditions in pets, including seizures. CBD is a compound found in cannabis plants and works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system to reduce inflammation and regulate brain activity. Studies show CBD can decrease seizure frequency in dogs, especially when used in conjunction with anti-seizure medications. CBD oil should only be purchased from reputable sources. Follow dosage guidelines carefully and monitor your dog closely when starting CBD treatment.
Valerian
Valerian is an herb that has sedative and anticonvulsant properties. It helps relax the central nervous system and prevent seizures from occurring. Valerian can be given in powdered form sprinkled on food or as a tincture. Only give valerian under the guidance of your vet, as improper dosing can cause side effects like tiredness and gastrointestinal upset. Do not use valerian long-term.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a mild calming herb that may help decrease seizure activity when used regularly. It contains compounds that promote relaxation and regulate neurotransmitters in the brain. Chamomile is available as a tincture, powder, or tea. Only give chamomile supplements meant for pet consumption and follow recommended dosages. Chamomile may take several weeks to start having an effect.
While herbal remedies can complement conventional treatment, they are not a substitute for anti-seizure medications prescribed by your vet. Always consult your vet before giving any herbal supplements to ensure proper dosing and safety with your dog’s medication regimen.
Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathy takes a holistic approach to treating seizures by stimulating the body’s own healing mechanisms. Two commonly used homeopathic remedies for canine seizures are Belladonna and Aurum metallicum.
Belladonna is derived from the deadly nightshade plant and can help control acute seizure episodes. It is best suited for seizures that come on suddenly and are explosive in nature. Belladonna treats the fever, sensitivity to light, and cerebral congestion that often accompany seizures. It can be administered at the first signs of a seizure or immediately after one occurs to help shorten the episode.
Aurum metallicum contains gold and is useful for managing chronic, recurring seizures. It works on a constitutional level to treat epilepsy that manifests with symptoms like behavioral changes, head pressing, drooling, and loss of appetite between seizures. Aurum metallicum balances neurotransmitters and regulates electrical impulses in the brain to raise the seizure threshold. It is most effective when given regularly over a period of months.
For homeopathy to work, it is critical to consult a veterinary homeopath to get the proper remedy and potency for your dog. The correct dosage and frequency will depend on your dog’s symptoms, health history, and constitution. Homeopathic remedies are very safe when used appropriately but should still be administered under the guidance of a trained professional.
While more research is still needed, some studies have found benefits of individualized homeopathic treatment for reducing seizure frequency and intensity in epileptic dogs. Homeopathy shows promise as a complementary therapy to control seizures, but anti-epileptic drugs may still be necessary for dogs with severe, uncontrolled epilepsy.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting very thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and improve overall health. When applied to dogs with seizures, acupuncture can help reduce the frequency and severity of episodes.
Acupuncture works by stimulating nerves, increasing blood flow, and balancing energy pathways in the body. For seizures, acupuncture points are selected along the dog’s bladder and gallbladder meridians to calm the nervous system and stabilize brain activity.
Several studies have shown acupuncture to be effective at reducing seizure frequency and intensity in canines. In one study of 29 dogs, over 80% saw a significant decrease in seizures after acupuncture treatment. The success rates are highest when acupuncture is used alongside medications and other therapies.
It’s important to find a certified veterinary acupuncturist to perform this treatment safely and effectively on dogs. The International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) provides a directory to locate qualified vets. During the initial appointment, the acupuncturist will evaluate your dog’s health history and determine the optimal acupuncture approach. Multiple sessions are usually needed before improvements are seen.
Other Complementary Therapies
In addition to the natural remedies already discussed, there are some other complementary treatment options that may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs.
Massage
Massage therapy promotes relaxation, improves circulation, and reduces muscle tension. For dogs prone to seizures, regular massage sessions may help reduce anxiety and stress levels, acting as a natural way to minimize seizure triggers. Gentle, therapeutic massage can be done at home or by a professional animal massage therapist.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic adjustments help align the spine and improve overall nervous system function. Since seizures originate in the brain, nervous system imbalance can contribute to seizure activity. Seeing a veterinary chiropractor may help reduce spinal subluxations, nerve impingement, and other issues affecting normal neural communication.
Antioxidant Therapy
Antioxidants like vitamin E help reduce oxidative damage and inflammation in the body and brain. Oxidative stress is thought to play a role in epilepsy. Supplementing with antioxidant compounds may help minimize seizure-inducing brain inflammation. Consult your vet before starting any new supplements.
Trying complementary therapies alongside conventional treatment can provide additional ways to manage seizures naturally. Work closely with your vet to determine if these options are appropriate for your dog’s condition.
Creating a Seizure Management Plan
If your dog experiences recurrent seizures, having a management plan in place can help you respond quickly and appropriately. Here are some tips for creating an effective plan:
Track any potential triggers and the timing of seizures. Make note of events preceding a seizure like weather changes, hyperactivity, dietary changes, or chemical exposures. Tracking this over time may reveal patterns and allow you to anticipate or avoid seizures.
Establish a medication routine if your vet has prescribed anti-seizure drugs. Make sure to follow dosage directions carefully and refill prescriptions on time. Setting alerts on your phone or calendar can help remind you to administer medication.
Learn first aid steps to take during a seizure:
- Stay calm and track the duration of the seizure
- Clear the area around the dog to prevent injury
- Do not attempt to restrain the dog or open its mouth
- Gently cushion the dog’s head if it is on a hard surface
- Avoid touching the dog unless necessary to prevent injury
- Let the seizure run its course naturally
- Monitor the dog as it recovers and provide comfort
- Call the vet if seizures last more than a few minutes or cluster together
Having an emergency plan prepared can help you manage seizures and provide the best care for your dog.
When to Seek Emergency Care
While most seizures are brief and do not require emergency medical care, there are certain situations where you should seek immediate veterinary attention for your dog:
Prolonged Seizures
If a seizure lasts more than 5 minutes or recurs repeatedly without your dog fully regaining consciousness, this is considered a prolonged seizure and a medical emergency. Prolonged seizures put your dog at risk of brain damage due to a lack of oxygen.
Cluster Seizures
Cluster seizures refer to multiple seizures occurring closely together, with only brief periods of consciousness in between. Having more than 3 seizures within a 24 hour period is considered an emergency. Cluster seizures are extremely taxing on the body.
Status Epilepticus
Status epilepticus is a life-threatening condition in which your dog experiences one continuous seizure lasting more than 5 minutes or multiple seizures without regaining consciousness in between. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate veterinary care to prevent serious injury, brain damage, or death.
If your dog experiences any of these emergency seizure situations, stay calm, time the seizure, and contact your veterinarian or emergency animal hospital right away. With rapid treatment, the longer-term outlook for your dog can remain positive.