Understanding Canine Epilepsy: Causes, Types, Possible Triggers & Treatment

Canine Epilepsy is unfortunately very common, which can be quite alarming. In my personal experience, my own dog Bailey has been dealing with Epilepsy for over 9 years now. We believe it started when he was around 3 years old. When I adopted him, his previous owners mentioned that he had previously had one seizure, which they thought was attributed to him ingesting a battery. However, his seizures became more frequent once he came into my care, so we had him tested and it was found that he had idiopathic epilepsy. Throughout the years, I have extensively researched and discovered some common triggers that tend to provoke seizures in dogs.

Canine epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects dogs, causing recurrent seizures. Witnessing your beloved furry friend experiencing seizures can be distressing, but understanding this condition can help you provide the care and support your dog needs. In this blog, we'll delve into the world of canine epilepsy, exploring its causes, different types of seizures, and treatment options.

What is Canine Epilepsy?

Epilepsy in dogs is characterized by a tendency to have recurrent seizures. Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled bursts of electrical activity in the brain that can lead to a range of physical and behavioral symptoms. Canine epilepsy is typically diagnosed when a dog experiences two or more seizures that are not caused by an underlying medical condition or toxicity.

Causes of Canine Epilepsy:

The exact cause of epilepsy in dogs is often unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development:

Genetics: Certain breeds are more prone to epilepsy, suggesting a genetic component.

Structural Abnormalities: Brain injuries or structural abnormalities in the brain can increase the risk of seizures.

Metabolic Disorders: Conditions that affect metabolism, such as low blood sugar or liver disease, can trigger seizures.

Infections or Toxins: Some infections or exposure to toxins can lead to seizures.

Types of Canine Seizures:

Seizures in dogs can vary in presentation, but they generally fall into two categories:

Generalized Seizures: These seizures affect the entire brain and often result in convulsions, loss of consciousness, and muscle rigidity. They can be further classified into tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures and absence seizures.

Focal (Partial) Seizures: Focal seizures occur in a specific part of the brain and may manifest as unusual behaviors, such as lip-smacking, chewing, or repetitive movements. Focal seizures can progress to generalized seizures.

Treatment and Management:

While canine epilepsy cannot be cured, it can often be managed effectively with proper treatment. Here are some key aspects of managing epilepsy in dogs:

Medication: Antiepileptic medications prescribed by a veterinarian can help control and reduce the frequency of seizures.

Regular Monitoring: Keep a seizure diary to record the frequency and nature of your dog's seizures. This information is valuable for your vet in adjusting the treatment plan.

Lifestyle Modifications: Maintain a consistent daily routine for your dog, as stress and changes in routine can trigger seizures.

Diet: Some dogs may benefit from a ketogenic diet, which is high in fat and low in carbohydrates.

Safety Measures: Ensure your dog's environment is safe to prevent injury during a seizure. Avoid sharp objects, and gently guide your dog away from hazards if possible.

Regular Vet Check-Ups: Regular veterinary visits are essential to monitor your dog's overall health and the effectiveness of the treatment.

Possible Seizure triggers:

Throughout the years, I have extensively researched and discovered some common triggers that tend to provoke seizures in dogs.

From my findings, certain chemicals found in processed dog food, such as rosemary which is often used as a natural preservative, have been known to trigger seizures. Additionally, household cleaners containing certain chemicals, as well as vaccinations and chemical-based flea and worm treatments, can also play a role. Other factors such as stress, anxiety, tiredness, over-exercise, excessive heat, and even lunar phases have also been observed to increase the likelihood of seizures. Furthermore, certain foods high in glutamates, such as rabbit and turkey, can be potential triggers as well. It's worth noting that dairy, soy, and gluten have also been linked to seizures.

Diet

In terms of dietary adjustments, I have observed a positive impact on Bailey's seizures by switching him to a raw food diet. This way, I have complete control over what he consumes, ensuring he avoids potential seizure triggers. However, finding a kibble brand without rosemary has proven to be quite challenging. There are plenty of raw feeding companies out there to choose from, my favourite is: Paleo Ridge as they are champions in being sustainable and eco-friendly too!

Chemical Free

As an alternative to chemical-based vaccinations and flea/worm treatments, consulting a holistic vet can be highly beneficial. They may provide you with nosodes for vaccinating your dog, and I personally use Billy no mates as a natural preventive measure against fleas, ticks, and mites. For worming, I rely on Verm-x along with the use of hairy ear chews. In terms of going chemical free for cleaning, we have a handy eco-cleaner blog!

What to do if your dog is seizuring?

In the unfortunate event that your dog experiences a seizure, it's important not to touch them unless they are in immediate danger, as touching can overstimulate their brain and extend the seizure. Creating a dark and quiet environment is advisable, as excessive stimulation can exacerbate the situation. Keeping your dog cool is also crucial, as overheating can occur during a seizure. It's recommended to monitor the duration of the fit, and it can be helpful to have diazepam available in case the seizure lasts for more than 5 minutes.

However, always consult with your vet and follow their guidance in these situations. It's important to note that seizures can sometimes be a symptom of underlying health conditions such as liver shunts, kidney issues, or tumors, so seeking veterinary advice is crucial.

Dealing with canine epilepsy can be challenging and worrisome, but with proper education, dietary adjustments, and guidance from professionals, we can better manage our furry friends' condition and provide them with the support they need. There are plenty of facebook groups & websites now to help & I highly recommend reading: ‘My Dog has Epilepsy, but lives life to the full!’ by Gill Carrick.

Living with a dog with epilepsy can be challenging, but with proper care and treatment, many dogs with this condition can lead happy and fulfilling lives. If you suspect your dog is experiencing seizures, consult your veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. Together, you can create a tailored treatment plan to help your furry companion manage epilepsy and enjoy a better quality of life.