Seizures are symptoms of a brain problem in a dog or cat, and occur when there is an abnormal burst of electrical activity in the brain. There are several things that can cause seizures in pets, and they can occur in both cats and dogs. Perhaps the most common cause of seizures in pets is epilepsy. However, other things that can cause seizures in dog and cats include brain tumors, injury to the brain, encephalitis, poisoning, heat stroke, liver failure and kidney failure.
How to Recognize
Before and after a seizure, your pet’s behavior may change and he/she may become confused, angry, or subdued. During a seizure, pets, like humans, typically lose consciousness, and will gradually become more alert after the seizure is over. When dogs experience seizures, they typically lie on the floor and their convulsions look as if they are treading water. Both cats and dogs may chew, lose control of urination and bowel movements, clamp their jaw, experience muscle spasms, or foam at the mouth. Pets can also experience psychomotor seizures, in which they will exhibit strange behavior in a short amount of time, such as incessant barking, rage, or running around in circles. It is difficult to tell when your pet is experiencing a psychomotor seizure, but your pet will do the same thing each time they experience one.
Causes of Seizures
Epilepsy is a seizure disorder in which your pet experiences multiple seizures throughout its lifetime. The frequency of seizures in a epileptic pet can vary greatly. As seizures root from the brain, head injury, stroke or brain cancer may also be the cause. Seizures can also be a sign that your pet has kidney or liver disease.
Diagnosis
Veterinarians will need to perform tests on your dog or cat to find the cause of the seizure(s).
Treatment for Seizures
During the seizure, move all furniture away from your pet to keep him/her from bumping into anything. Keep your distance from your pet during the seizure because he/she may accidentally bite you if they clamp their jaws. Try to time the length of the seizure as your veterinarian will ask for this information. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately after the seizure.
Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
