Noticing your dog or cat having a sudden episode of tremors, paddling, or unresponsiveness can be terrifying. Seizures are a neurological emergency that requires prompt attention to protect your pet’s safety and health.
This blog will help you learn what causes seizures. You will also learn how to recognize different seizure patterns.
Finally, it will explain what steps to take right away. You will learn when to seek help from professionals like our emergency neurology specialists at Portland Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Care.
Why Pets Experience Seizures
Seizures occur when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They can stem from inherited conditions, metabolic disturbances, infections, toxins, inflammatory diseases, or structural brain lesions. Young pets may be more likely to have epilepsy, while older animals may be more prone to tumors. Identifying the underlying trigger is essential to guide effective treatment and long-term management.
Recognizing Different Seizure Types
Seizures present in varied ways. You may witness:
- Generalized seizures with full-body convulsions and loss of consciousness
- Focal seizures that may manifest as twitching, facial movements, altered mentation, or other localized behaviors. Complete loss of consciousness may not be noted.
Immediate First Aid for a Seizing Pet
While you arrange transport to an emergency facility, ensure safety without attempting to restrain your pet’s mouth or limbs. Do the following:
- Move objects away to prevent injury.
- Cushion your pet’s head with a soft towel.
- Time the seizure and note its duration.
- Contact a veterinary professional.
Why Emergency Neurology Care Is Critical
Seizures that last more than five minutes or happen in clusters within 24 hours can cause permanent brain damage. Our 24/7 emergency team can provide initial diagnostics and stabilization, and they are trained in initiating anticonvulsant therapy and continuous monitoring. Our neurology specialists can provide advanced tests like MRI or cerebrospinal fluid analysis. They also offer long-term medical care.
Supporting Long-Term Management
Once stabilized, many patients benefit from ongoing treatment with anticonvulsant medications, other treatments targeting the underlying cause of the seizure disorder, and regular checkups. Our neurology specialists will work with you and your primary veterinarian. They will create a plan that reduces side effects and improves quality of life. Discover how our neurologists can partner in your pet’s ongoing neurological health.
When to Contact an Emergency Vet
If you see a seizure or think your pet might have had one, our emergency neurology team is here to help 24/7.
Learn more about our 24/7 Emergency services here.