Epilepsy is a chronic disorder of the brain that causes frequent seizures. A seizure occurs when abnormal nerve signals in the brain cause the muscles suddenly to convulse.
Types of seizures:
CAUSES:
There is a condition called Idiopathic Epilepsy where there is no known cause, and can possibly be genetic.
Other causes may include:
SIGNS:
During a seizure, move your dog to an open space to avoid injury. Try to time the seizure and watch it closely. After the seizure, stay near your dog and comfort it as it regains consciousness. You can cool them with an ice pack either in the neck area orin the groin area. Then go to your veterinarian immediately and tell them exactly what happened. Seizures require emergency veterinary care because they can lead to life-threatening complications.
DIAGNOSIS:
Many disorders cause seizures, so your veterinarian will perform a few tests to rule out other diseases before diagnosing your dog with epilepsy.
TREATMENT:
Epilepsy is not curable and requires lifelong care.
Your veterinarian may prescribe anticonvulsant drugs. In most cases, these will not completely stop all seizures, but will lessen the frequency and severity. You will probably need to give your dog the medication for life. However, if they were on medication for over a year, and had no seizures during that time, your veterinarian may recommend slowly reducing the dose.
Probiotics (dietary supplements containing live bacteria) are helpful. They come in packets and can easily be added to your dog’s food.
Keep track of all seizures and follow up with your veterinarian every few months.
PREVENTION:
Since the main causes of epilepsy are either unknown or genetic, there is noknown way to prevent this condition.
PROGNOSIS:
With medication, approximately 70% of epileptic pets live a normal life. About 30% do not respond to antiseizure drugs, but most can still live happy lives.
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