Seizures are involuntary and uncontrollable movements of the body. They are triggered by specific activities in the brain. Parts of the body or the entire body can be affected. Affected animals may be conscious or unresponsive. Prolonged seizures can lead to damage in the brain as well as in other organs.
Seizures
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Seizures
Seizures are involuntary, usually rhythmic muscle contractions that can affect a local area or the entire body. Causes range from epileptic Seizures to metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. disorders to poisoning. Seizures can be life-threatening if they last a long time or impair respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. and circulatory functions.
Seizures are involuntary and uncontrollable movements of the body. They are triggered by special activities in the brain. Parts of the body or the entire body may be affected. Affected animals may be conscious or unresponsive. Prolonged Seizures can lead to damage in the brain, but also in other organs.
Seizures in dogs and cats are involuntary, uncontrollable movements of the body that are triggered by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. These neurological events can take focalFocal refers to a limited or specific area. In medicine, this may concern a localized area where a disease or pathological process is active, such as a focal seizure that affects only part of the brain. (limited to one part of the body) or generalizedGeneralized means that a disease or condition affects a large part of the body or multiple organ systems. Generalized diseases can show systemic symptoms and may require more comprehensive treatment. (affecting the entire body) forms. The intensity can range from mild Muscle twitching to severe tonic-clonic Convulsions with loss of consciousness. A seizure is a symptom and not a disease in itself – it indicates an underlying disorder that must be diagnosed.
Seizures can be divided into different phases: The prodromal phase occurs hours to days before the actual seizure and manifests as Behavioral changes. The aura is the immediate pre-phase, in which the animal may appear restless or anxious. During the ictal phase (Iktale Phase in the middle of the seizure) the actual seizure takes place. In the postictal phase, which can last minutes to days, the animals often show disorientation, exhaustion, or abnormal behavior. Understanding these phases is important for pet owners to recognize Seizures early and react appropriately.
Causes
There are various forms of seizures with different starting points.
Underlying diseases and disorders can include epilepsy, poisons, hypoglycemiaHypoglycemia is a condition in which blood sugar levels fall below the normal range. Symptoms may include tremors, sweating, Hunger, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness., metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. associated with pregnancy and lactationLactation refers to the production and secretion of milk by the mammary glands of female mammals after giving birth. It serves to nourish the offspring. Lactation problems in dogs and cats can cause health problems for both mother and puppies/kittens. (eclampsia), brain Tumors, and other conditions.
In young animals, congenitalCongenital means "present from birth" and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. problems such as hydrocephalus or malformations of the liver (portosystemic ShuntA shunt is an abnormal connection between blood vessels or heart chambers that causes blood to bypass the normal circulatory system pathway. Shunts can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired.) or epilepsy play a special role.
GeneralizedGeneralized means that a disease or condition affects a large part of the body or multiple organ systems. Generalized diseases can show systemic symptoms and may require more comprehensive treatment. Seizures with loss of consciousness should definitely be investigated.
Supplements
The causes of Seizures in dogs and cats are varied and can be divided into two main categories: intracerebral (in the brain) and extracerebral (outside the brain) causes.
Intracerebral causes include primaryPrimary refers to the first or original cause of a disease or condition, as opposed to secondary causes or symptoms that develop from it. epilepsy (genetically determined), structural brain diseases such as Tumors, Inflammatory conditions (encephalitisEncephalitis is an inflammation of the brain, often caused by viral infections, which can lead to symptoms such as Fever, headaches, confusion, and in severe cases, seizures or impaired consciousness.), infections, head Traumata, and congenitalCongenital means "present from birth" and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. malformations such as hydrocephalus. IdiopathicIdiopathic refers to a condition or disease for which the cause is unknown. It is used when no clear external cause or underlying disease can be identified as an explanation for the symptoms. epilepsy is particularly genetically predisposed in certain dog breeds such as Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, Beagle, and Labrador Retriever and typically manifests between the ages of one and five years.
Extracerebral causes include metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. disorders such as hypoglycemiaHypoglycemia is a condition in which blood sugar levels fall below the normal range. Symptoms may include tremors, sweating, Hunger, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness., electrolyte imbalances, liver and kidney diseases that can lead to a build-up of toxins in the blood. Poisoning from chocolate, xylitol, ethylene glycol, pesticidesPesticides are chemical or biological substances used to control pests, including insects, weeds, and fungi. In dogs and cats, exposure to certain pesticides can be harmful to health and lead to signs of poisoning., or mold toxins can also triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. Seizures. In pregnant or lactating female dogs and cats, eclampsia (calciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. deficiencyDeficiency means a lack or absence of a necessary substance required for normal bodily functions or health, such as vitamins, minerals, or hormones.) can lead to severe Convulsions.
In young animals, congenitalCongenital means "present from birth" and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. problems such as hydrocephalus or portosystemic shunts play a special role, while in older animals, degenerative diseases or neoplasiaNeoplasia refers to the uncontrolled, abnormal growth of cells or tissues, leading to the formation of a neoplasm or tumor. Neoplasias can be benign or malignant and require accurate diagnostic evaluation and treatment. are more common. Accurate identification of the cause is crucial for targeted therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions..
Symptoms
Seizures in dogs and cats
Typical Symptoms:
- Involuntary, widespread muscle contractions, stiff muscles, muscle twitching, up to generalizedGeneralized means that a disease or condition affects a large part of the body or multiple organ systems. Generalized diseases can show systemic symptoms and may require more comprehensive treatment. convulsions.
- Loss of consciousness, collapse of the animals, Rowing movements
- Loss of control over the bladder and rectum, drooling, uncontrolled urination/defecation possible
- May bite the tongue
- Post-phase: Disorientation, Blindness, Hunger, Restlessness
Alarm signs:
- Seizure > 3–5 minutes (status epilepticus risk)
- Serial Seizures (“cluster”) within a short time
- Shortness of breath, cyanosisCyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, caused by an inadequate oxygen supply to the blood. It can be a sign of heart, lung, or blood diseases., hyperthermiaHyperthermia refers to an elevated body temperature beyond the normal range. In dogs and cats, this can be caused by overheating, Fever, or certain diseases, and often requires urgent medical attention.
- First seizure in very young/old or after poison ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems./trauma
Escalation/course:
- Repeated Seizures within 24 h → escalation required
- Increasing duration/lack of recovery → critical
- Increasing temperature/weakness after seizure → metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. derailment possible
The symptoms of a seizure vary considerably depending on the type and severity. In generalizedGeneralized means that a disease or condition affects a large part of the body or multiple organ systems. Generalized diseases can show systemic symptoms and may require more comprehensive treatment. Seizures, the most common and noticeable form, the following characteristic signs occur: The animal suddenly collapses, loses consciousness, and shows pronounced muscle stiffness (tonic phase), followed by rhythmic twitching of all extremities (clonicClonic describes a form of muscle twitching characterized by rapid and rhythmic contractions. Clonic seizures are a type of seizure in which these twitches occur. phase). Involuntary urination and defecation, increased salivation, and pupil dilationDilation refers to the widening or expansion of a hollow organ or vessel. It can be physiological (normal) or pathological (due to disease). can occur. Breathing is often irregular, and some animals show paddling with their legs or jaw snapping.
FocalFocal refers to a limited or specific area. In medicine, this may concern a localized area where a disease or pathological process is active, such as a focal seizure that affects only part of the brain. Seizures only affect certain areas of the body and manifest as localized Muscle twitching, for example in the face, or through abnormal movements of an extremity. Consciousness may be maintained. FocalFocal refers to a limited or specific area. In medicine, this may concern a localized area where a disease or pathological process is active, such as a focal seizure that affects only part of the brain. Seizures can progress to generalizedGeneralized means that a disease or condition affects a large part of the body or multiple organ systems. Generalized diseases can show systemic symptoms and may require more comprehensive treatment. Seizures.
Particularly dangerous are status epilepticus (persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. seizure lasting more than five minutes) and cluster Seizures (multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. Seizures within 24 hours). These conditions can lead to life-threatening complications such as hyperthermiaHyperthermia refers to an elevated body temperature beyond the normal range. In dogs and cats, this can be caused by overheating, Fever, or certain diseases, and often requires urgent medical attention., cerebral edemaAn edema is a buildup of fluid in the body's tissues, leading to Swelling. Edema can be localized or generalized and is often a sign of an underlying condition., and multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. organ failure and require immediate veterinary emergency treatment.
In the postictal phase after the actual seizure, disorientation, temporary Blindness, excessive thirst and Hunger, exhaustion, or even aggressive Behavioral changes can occur. This phase can last minutes to days and is an important diagnostic indicationIndication refers to a valid reason or rationale for using a specific treatment, medication, or medical procedure. It is based on the diagnosis and the patient's clinical condition. of a seizure that has occurred.
First Aid
- Protect your animal from injury. Do not place it on an elevated surface from which it could fall. Create space around the animal.
- Remove other animals from the area of the seizing animal to prevent an attack.
- Do not reach into the animal’s oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. cavity. You could be bitten. Animals do not swallow their tongues!
- If the Seizures last longer than 3 minutes, try to cool your animal and take it to a veterinarian. Also, take it to a veterinarian if the Seizures are repeated.
- Do not influence the animal. You cannot end a seizure by Fright, hitting, screaming, water, or the like.
- If a seizure is over and your animal seems completely normal and alert, offer it a small portion of easily digestible, sugary food.
- Do not force it to drink anything if it does not want to eat or drink.
- If your animal is definitely not breathing, start resuscitationResuscitation includes measures to revive animals after a cardiac arrest or severe respiratory depression. These may include chest compressions and artificial respiration..
The symptoms of a seizure vary considerably depending on the type and severity. In generalizedGeneralized means that a disease or condition affects a large part of the body or multiple organ systems. Generalized diseases can show systemic symptoms and may require more comprehensive treatment. Seizures, the most common and noticeable form, the following characteristic signs occur: The animal suddenly collapses, loses consciousness, and shows pronounced muscle stiffness (tonic phase), followed by rhythmic twitching of all extremities (clonicClonic describes a form of muscle twitching characterized by rapid and rhythmic contractions. Clonic seizures are a type of seizure in which these twitches occur. phase). Involuntary urination and defecation, increased salivation, and pupil dilationDilation refers to the widening or expansion of a hollow organ or vessel. It can be physiological (normal) or pathological (due to disease). can occur. Breathing is often irregular, and some animals show paddling with their legs or jaw snapping.
FocalFocal refers to a limited or specific area. In medicine, this may concern a localized area where a disease or pathological process is active, such as a focal seizure that affects only part of the brain. Seizures only affect certain areas of the body and manifest as localized Muscle twitching, for example in the face, or through abnormal movements of an extremity. Consciousness may be maintained. FocalFocal refers to a limited or specific area. In medicine, this may concern a localized area where a disease or pathological process is active, such as a focal seizure that affects only part of the brain. Seizures can progress to generalizedGeneralized means that a disease or condition affects a large part of the body or multiple organ systems. Generalized diseases can show systemic symptoms and may require more comprehensive treatment. Seizures.
Particularly dangerous are status epilepticus (persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. seizure lasting more than five minutes) and cluster Seizures (multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. Seizures within 24 hours). These conditions can lead to life-threatening complications such as hyperthermiaHyperthermia refers to an elevated body temperature beyond the normal range. In dogs and cats, this can be caused by overheating, Fever, or certain diseases, and often requires urgent medical attention., cerebral edemaAn edema is a buildup of fluid in the body's tissues, leading to Swelling. Edema can be localized or generalized and is often a sign of an underlying condition., and multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. organ failure and require immediate veterinary emergency treatment.
In the postictal phase after the actual seizure, disorientation, temporary Blindness, excessive thirst and Hunger, exhaustion, or even aggressive Behavioral changes can occur. This phase can last minutes to days and is an important diagnostic indicationIndication refers to a valid reason or rationale for using a specific treatment, medication, or medical procedure. It is based on the diagnosis and the patient's clinical condition. of a seizure that has occurred.
When should you see a vet sooner?
Always red, especially with a cluster of seizures, duration >5 minutes, or impaired consciousness afterward.
Diagnosis
The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of Seizures requires a systematic approach that begins with a thorough medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits.. Detailed information on the seizure event, including video recordings, is extremely valuable. A seizure diary, in which frequency, duration, time of day, and possible triggers are documented, significantly supports the diagnostic classification.
The clinical examination includes a general and a special neurological examination, in which the state of consciousness, posture and positioning reactions, reflexes, and cranialCranial refers to a position that is closer to the head or towards the head of an animal. In veterinary medicine, the term is used to describe the location of structures or diseases in relation to the head. nerves are assessed. Laboratory tests such as blood count, serumSerum is the liquid part of the blood that remains after coagulation. It does not contain blood cells or coagulation factors, but many other proteins, antibody and electrolytes. Serum is used in diagnostics for a variety of blood tests. chemistry, electrolytesElectrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and perform vital functions such as regulating fluid balance, acid-base balance, and nerve and muscle activity. The main electrolytes include sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium., and urinalysis are used to rule out metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. causes. If poisoning is suspected, specific toxicology tests can be performed.
Diagnostic imagingDiagnostic imaging includes medical procedures that create images of the inside of the body to diagnose, monitor, or treat diseases and injuries. Examples include X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). plays a central role. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. is the method of choice for imaging the brain tissue and can detect structural changes such as Tumors, Inflammatory conditions, or malformations. Computed tomography (CT) is particularly suitable for imaging bony structures and acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. Bleeding. In specialized centers, an electroencephalography (EEG) can also be performed to record electrical brain activity.
If inflammatory or infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. diseases are suspected, a cerebrospinal fluidCerebrospinal fluid is a clear, colorless liquid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. It acts as a shock absorber and is involved in regulating the chemical environment of the CNS (central nervous system). examination (brain-spinal cord fluid) may be necessary. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of idiopathicIdiopathic refers to a condition or disease for which the cause is unknown. It is used when no clear external cause or underlying disease can be identified as an explanation for the symptoms. epilepsy is made as a diagnosis of exclusionA diagnosis of exclusion is a method where other potential causes of a patient's symptoms are systematically ruled out until the most likely cause remains. In dogs and cats, this method is often used for complex or unclear clinical pictures., if no structural or metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. causes are found and the animal shows first Seizures at the typical age (1–5 years).
Further veterinary measures
An acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. convulsion is a life-threatening situation.
Here, the acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. situation must be ended as quickly as possible by administering an anticonvulsantAn anticonvulsant is a medication used to prevent or control seizures and other types of neurological disorders associated with abnormal electrical activity in the brain..
Certain medications that your veterinarian always has in stock typically show a rapid onset of action when administered intravenously.
However, sometimes the convulsion can only be stopped by anesthesia.
Not every seizure episode should result in long-term medication.
The cause must be clarified. If this cannot be eliminated, the therapeutic goal is to achieve freedom from convulsions or at least a reduction in convulsions through long-term medication.
Supplements
The therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. of Seizures is primarily based on the underlying cause. In structural brain diseases such as Tumors, a surgical intervention may be necessary. MetabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. disorders require specific treatment of the underlying disease, for example by administering glucoseGlucose is a simple sugar and the body's main source of energy. The concentration of glucose in the blood is regulated to meet the energy needs of the cells. in the case of hypoglycemiaHypoglycemia is a condition in which blood sugar levels fall below the normal range. Symptoms may include tremors, sweating, Hunger, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. or calciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. substitution in the case of eclampsia.
Drug therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. with antiepileptic drugs forms the basis of long-term treatment for epilepsy. Phenobarbital is still the first-line drug for dogs, while levetiracetam is often preferred for cats. Other options include potassiumPotassium is an essential mineral and electrolyte that is important for the function of nerves and muscles, including the heart muscle. Potassium also helps regulate fluid balance and blood pressure. bromide, zonisamide, gabapentin, and imepitoin. The therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. decision is based on efficacy, side effectA side effect is an unwanted reaction to a medication or treatment. In animals, side effects can range from mild and temporary to severe and potentially life-threatening. profile, dosing interval, and individual patient factors. Regular monitoring of drug levels and organ functions is essential to detect side effects early.
In acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. Seizures, rapidly acting benzodiazepines such as diazepam or midazolam are used, which can be administered intravenously, rectally, or intranasally. In therapy-resistant Seizures or status epilepticus, initiation of anesthesiaAnesthesia refers to the state of insensitivity to pain and can be partial (local anesthesia) or for the entire body (general anesthesia). It is used to keep patients pain-free during surgical procedures. with propofol or other anesthetics may be necessary to interrupt seizure activity.
Supplementary therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. approaches such as ketogenic diets, medium-chain triglyceridesTriglycerides are fats that circulate in the blood and are an important source of energy for the body. High triglyceride levels can be a risk factor for heart disease and pancreatitis., or dietary supplements with omega-3 fatty acids can have a supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. effect. Avoiding seizure-triggering factors such as stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., extreme temperatures, or sudden light stimuli is also an important part of management.
Prognosis and aftercare
The Prognose for Seizures depends largely on the underlying cause. In idiopathicIdiopathic refers to a condition or disease for which the cause is unknown. It is used when no clear external cause or underlying disease can be identified as an explanation for the symptoms. epilepsy, a good quality of life is often possible for many years with adequate medication, with the goal of reducing seizure frequency and severity by at least 50%. In structural brain diseases such as Tumors or inflammatory processes, the Prognose depends on the treatability of the underlying disease.
Aftercare includes regular veterinary check-ups with blood tests to monitor drug levels and organ functions. Regular level checks are particularly important for phenobarbital and potassiumPotassium is an essential mineral and electrolyte that is important for the function of nerves and muscles, including the heart muscle. Potassium also helps regulate fluid balance and blood pressure. bromide to ensure optimal dosing. Liver and kidney values should be monitored as some antiepileptic drugs can have a hepatotoxic effect.
A seizure diary, in which the frequency, duration, and severity of the Seizures are documented, is a valuable tool for assessing the success of the therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. If seizure control is insufficient, an adjustment of the medication or the combination of several active ingredients may be necessary. Approximately 20–30% of epilepsy patients develop drug resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins., which makes treatment more difficult.
Training pet owners in how to handle seizures and administer emergency medication is an important part of aftercare. Setting up a safe environment where the animal cannot injure itself during a seizure contributes significantly to their quality of life.
Summary
Seizures in dogs and cats are complex neurological events that can be triggered by various intracerebral and extracerebral causes. They manifest as involuntary muscle contractions that can occur focally or in a generalizedGeneralized means that a disease or condition affects a large part of the body or multiple organ systems. Generalized diseases can show systemic symptoms and may require more comprehensive treatment. manner, often accompanied by disturbances of consciousness and autonomic symptoms. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. requires a comprehensive approach with imaging, laboratory tests, and neurological assessment to identify the underlying cause.
The therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is directed at the underlying disease and, in the case of chronic seizure disorders, usually includes lifelong drug treatment with antiepileptic drugs. AcuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. seizures often require emergency treatment with fast-acting benzodiazepines. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. varies depending on the cause, with idiopathicIdiopathic refers to a condition or disease for which the cause is unknown. It is used when no clear external cause or underlying disease can be identified as an explanation for the symptoms. epilepsy being largely compatible with a good quality of life with adequate treatment.
It is important for pet owners to recognize seizure symptoms early, know first aid measures, and keep a seizure diary. Regular veterinary monitoring and adapting living conditions to the needs of the sick animal are crucial for successful seizure management.
Outlook on current research
Research in the field of veterinary epileptology has made significant progress in recent years. Genetic studies are increasingly identifying specific gene mutations associated with epilepsy in certain dog breeds. This could lead to more targeted breeding programs and possibly gene therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. approaches in the future. In Labrador Retrievers, a mutationA mutation is a permanent change in the DNA sequence (genetic material) of an organism. In dogs and cats, mutations can lead to genetic diseases or desirable changes in certain traits. in the LGI2 gene has been identified, among others, which is associated with juvenile epilepsy.
New antiepileptic drugs with improved efficacy profiles and fewer side effects are continuously being developed and transferred from human medicine to veterinary medicine. Substances such as brivaracetam or perampanel show promising results in initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies in therapy-resistant cases.
Innovative technologies for seizure detection and prediction are under development. Wearable EEG devices and motion sensors could provide early warning of impending seizures in the future. This would allow preventive measures and timely medication.
Research into the microbiome and its effects on neurological diseases opens up new perspectives. InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies suggest links between the intestinal flora / gut microbiotaThe intestinal flora / gut microbiota, also called microbiome, refers to the community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. A healthy intestinal flora / gut microbiota is crucial for digestion, the immune system, and the overall health of dogs and cats. and seizure control, which could lead to new dietary or probiotic therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. approaches.
Neuromodulatory procedures such as vagus nerveThe vagus nerve is the tenth cranial nerve and plays a central role in the parasympathetic nervous system. It affects the function of many internal organs, including the control of heart rate, gastrointestinal motility, and respiration in dogs and cats. stimulation, which are already established in human medicine, are also increasingly being investigated in veterinary medicine and could represent an alternative for drug-resistant patients.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- Can my animal die from a single seizure?
A single seizure is rarely fatal, but in rare cases can lead to complications such as aspiration or Traumata. It becomes life-threatening in the event of status epilepticus or clustered Seizures (cluster Seizures). - How do I know if my animal had a seizure when I was not present?
Indications may be wet spots (urine, saliva), moved furniture, injuries, severe exhaustion, disorientation, or unusual behavior of the animal. - Is epilepsy curable in dogs and cats?
IdiopathicIdiopathic refers to a condition or disease for which the cause is unknown. It is used when no clear external cause or underlying disease can be identified as an explanation for the symptoms. epilepsy is not curable, but in most cases can be controlled with medication. In symptomatic epilepsy, the chance of recovery depends on the treatability of the underlying disease. - Does an animal with epilepsy always have to take medication?
The decision for permanent medication depends on the frequency and severity of the Seizures. In general, therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is recommended if more than two Seizures occur within six months. - Can I still do sports with my epileptic dog?
Moderate physical activity is mostly beneficial. However, extreme exertion, overheating, or hypothermia should be avoided as they can triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. Seizures. - What are the side effects of antiepileptic drugs?
Common side effects include initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. SedationSedation refers to the state of calming or suppressing the central nervous system with medication, which reduces anxiety and irritability and sometimes induces a light sleep., increased appetite, increased drinking and urination. In the long term, liver damage, blood count changes, or neurological disorders can occur. - Are certain dog breeds particularly susceptible to epilepsy?
Yes, a genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. exists in Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Beagles, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Belgian Shepherds. - Can a special diet reduce Seizures?
There is evidence that ketogenic diets or supplements with medium-chain triglyceridesTriglycerides are fats that circulate in the blood and are an important source of energy for the body. High triglyceride levels can be a risk factor for heart disease and pancreatitis. and omega-3 fatty acids can have a supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. effect, but not as a sole therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. - Is CBD oil an effective alternative to conventional antiepileptic drugs?
InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies show positive effects of CBD in therapy-resistant epilepsy, but standardized dosage recommendations and long-term studies for veterinary use are still lacking. - Can an animal discontinue medication after a long period of seizure freedom?
Discontinuation should only take place after at least one year of seizure freedom and under veterinary supervision very slowly, as abrupt discontinuation can triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. new Seizures.
Literature
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- Rusbridge, C., Long, S., Jovanovik, J., et al. (2021). International Veterinary Epilepsy Task Force recommendations for a veterinary epilepsy-specific MRI protocol. BMC Veterinary Research, 17(1), 127-139.
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- Mariani, C.L., Levitin, H.A. (2021). The Pharmacokinetics and Efficacy of Levetiracetam in Cats with Epilepsy. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 35(1), 451-458.
- Muñana, K.R., Nettifee-Osborne, J.A., Papich, M.G. (2020). Effect of chronic administration of phenobarbital, or bromide, on pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam in dogs with epilepsy. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 34(5), 1986-1993.