What are the symptoms of seizures and epilepsy?

Loss of consciousness. Stiffness or uncontrolled leg movements (paddling). Drooling, sometimes loss of bladder or bowel control. Beforehand: odd behaviour (pre-ictal phase). Afterwards: disorientation, temporary blindness, exhaustion (post-ictal phase)

Is Seizures and epilepsy contagious?

Seizures and epilepsy does not spread directly between animals.

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Seizures and epilepsy

A seizure is an abnormal electrical discharge in the brain. Epilepsy is the tendency to suffer recurrent seizures. Witnessing a seizure is very frightening, but knowing how to act is key.

Severe🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

EMERGENCY if: the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, several occur one after another, or it is the first time. If it is an already diagnosed epileptic and the seizure is brief and isolated, note it down and consult your vet.

Symptoms to watch for

• Loss of consciousness
• Stiffness or uncontrolled leg movements (paddling)
• Drooling, sometimes loss of bladder or bowel control
• Beforehand: odd behaviour (pre-ictal phase)
• Afterwards: disorientation, temporary blindness, exhaustion (post-ictal phase)

Causes

Idiopathic epilepsy (the most common in young dogs, with no structural cause), tumours, poisonings, metabolic problems (liver, low blood sugar), head trauma, infections.

Diagnosis

The vet investigates the cause: blood tests, a neurological examination and, depending on the case, MRI or cerebrospinal fluid analysis.

Treatment

DURING the seizure: stay calm, move away objects it could hit itself on, do NOT put anything in its mouth (a dangerous myth), time how long it lasts, and dim lights and noise. Epilepsy is managed with lifelong anti-epileptic medication.

Prevention

Idiopathic epilepsy cannot be prevented. You can avoid toxins and trauma. Strictly follow the medication if it has been diagnosed.

When should you see the vet?

Consult a vet 24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.