Understanding Epilepsy in Your Cat or Dog
Watching your beloved cat or dog have a seizure can be a frightening and distressing experience. As pet owners, it’s natural to feel helpless when faced with something so sudden and dramatic. This guide is here to help you understand what epilepsy in cats and dogs is, recognise the symptoms, and know how to safely and calmly respond. We’ll also cover how to support your pet in the long term, acting as a helpful and professional partner in their care.
What Are the Signs of Seizures in Pets?
A seizure is a short, sudden electrical disturbance in the brain. They can vary a lot in how they look, and sometimes it can be hard to tell what’s happening. Recognising the signs is the first step towards getting your pet the right help.
A seizure is often broken down into three stages:
Pre-seizure (Aura): You might notice some unusual behaviour in your pet just before a seizure starts. This could include sudden restlessness, hiding, or seeking comfort. They may appear confused or unsteady.
The Seizure (Ictus): This is the main event. Your pet may fall over, become stiff, or start to tremble and jerk uncontrollably. They may also drool, urinate, or empty their bowels. They will be unconscious and unresponsive during this stage.
Post-seizure (Post-ictus): After the seizure, your pet might seem dazed and disoriented. They may wander aimlessly, bump into objects, or appear temporarily blind. They may also be extremely tired and want to sleep.
What to Do If Your Pet Has a Seizure
It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed, but staying calm is the most important thing you can do. Your first priority is to keep your pet safe until the seizure passes.
Follow these steps to keep your pet safe:
Stay Calm: Take a deep breath. Your composure can help you act effectively.
Move to a Safe Space: If your pet is on furniture, gently guide them onto the floor. Clear away any objects they could bump into or fall from.
Dim the Lights and Reduce Noise: Seizures can be worsened by bright lights and loud sounds, so try to make the room as quiet and calm as possible.
Time the Seizure: Start a timer so you know exactly how long the seizure lasts. This information is crucial for your vet. If you can, take a video of the event to help your vet see what happened. Recording the details in a seizure diary can be invaluable.
Keep Them Cool: Seizures can cause a rise in body temperature. You can place a cool, damp towel underneath their head, but be careful not to wrap them up.
Wait It Out: Do not transport your pet until the seizure has completely stopped unless your vet advises you to do so.
What to avoid during a seizure:
- Don't Restrain Them: Never try to hold your pet down or restrain them during a seizure, as you could hurt them or get hurt yourself.
- Don't Try to Wake Them: Shouting, shaking, or hitting them will not bring them out of the seizure and may even make it worse.
- Don't Go Near Their Mouth: Your pet is unconscious and may bite unintentionally.
- Don't Wrap Them Up: As mentioned above, this can cause them to overheat, which is dangerous during a seizure.
Once the seizure is over, and your pet has come round, contact your vet immediately. It’s especially important to call your vet if the seizure lasts for more than two minutes or if your pet has had more than one seizure in 24 hours. If it's safe to do so, video recording the seizure can provide your veterinarian with valuable information for diagnosis and treatment.
Managing and Supporting a Pet with Epilepsy
A diagnosis of pet epilepsy isn't the end of the world. With professional care and the right support, many cats and dogs with the condition can live full and happy lives. Your vet will create a specific treatment plan for your pet, which may include medication.
While only a vet can prescribe medication, you can play a big part in managing the condition by providing a supportive environment. This includes maintaining a consistent routine, ensuring a balanced diet, and providing calming and stress-reducing opportunities.
Weldricks stocks both prescription medication and a range of products that can support your pet’s general health and well-being. We offer calming supplements, vitamins, and other nutritional products to support your pet's routine, just be sure to check with your vet first to make sure they're right for your pet.
Always Consult a Professional
This information is for guidance only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. You should always consult your veterinary surgeon for professional advice regarding the diagnosis and treatment of any health condition your pet may have.
