Download Epilepsy/Seizures - Delphos Animal Hospital

DELPHOS ANIMAL HOSPITAL, INC.
1825 E. Fifth Street
Delphos, OH 45833
419-692-9941
ABOUT EPILEPSY
WHAT IS A SEIZURE?
A seizure is an abnormal electrical pattern in the brain that causes a variety of
signs, including loss of consciousness, collapse, muscle spasms, tremors, excessive
salivation, and loss of the ability to control urinations and defecations.
WHAT CAUSES SEIZURES?
Toxic poisons (lead, anti-freeze or strychnine), infections, parasites, head
trauma, brain tumors, and changes in blood glucose (sugar) or calcium are some of the
causes. However, the cause of most seizures is unknown.
WHAT IS EPILEPSY?
Epilepsy is a disorder characterized by recurring seizures. When the specific
cause of seizures cannot be identified, the condition is called IDIOPATHIC EPILEPSY.
Inheritance plays a role in idiopathic epilepsy, and certain breeds of dogs (Beagles,
Dachshunds, Poodles, for example) are more likely to have epilepsy than others.
Idiopathic epilepsy may, however, occur in any breed. Epileptic dogs should never be
used for breeding purposes.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF A SEIZURE?
If a seizure is observed carefully, three stages may be evident. In the aura (preseizure) stage, the animal is restless, paces, seeks affection, salivates, whines, hides or
exhibits unusual behaviors. These signs may be seen minutes to days before the actual
seizure begins.
The ictus (seizure) usually lasts less than 5 minutes. Excitement, vomiting,
salivations, and running in circles may occur in addition to the signs noted above.
After the seizure, the postictal (recovery) phase can last from minutes to days.
Some animals act disoriented, drunk or blind and, occasionally exhibit vicious behavior.
HOW IS EPILEPSY DIAGNOSED?
A detailed history, physical examination, and blood tests are routinely performed
to determine the cause of seizures. In some cases, more involved testing may be
needed. If a cause cannot be identified from the history or testing, the condition is
diagnosed as idiopathic epilepsy.
A single, mild seizure seldom requires treatment. But, your pet will be prescribed
medication after a single, severe seizure or when a pattern of repetitive seizures has
been established.
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WHAT IS THE TREATMENT?
If a specific cause such as an infection is identified, your pet will be treated for it.
No cure exists for idiopathic epilepsy so treatment of this condition is aimed at
minimizing both the frequency and severity of seizures. Oral medications are prescribed
for daily use to prevent or curb abnormal electrical patterns in the brain.
If an epileptic animal is not treated, seizures may become increasingly frequent
and violent. If your pet is started on medication, treatment must be continued as
directed. Failure to do so may result in break-through seizures.
WHAT IS STATUS EPILEPTICUS?
Status epilepticus is a state of continuous seizure activity lasting 15 minutes or
more. Without emergency care, this condition can result in coma, irreversible brain
damage, and death.
Treatment consists of stopping the seizure with sedatives injected intravenously
(directly into a vein). Blood samples are studied to identify abnormalities that might
cause seizures. Glucose is given intravenously, and calcium and anesthetics may also
be needed. The animal may be hospitalized for observation and a thorough evaluation.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY PET HAS A SEIZURE?
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Remain calm.
DO NOT put your hands in your pet’s mouth. This is not helpful and you
may be bitten!
To prevent injury to your pet, cradle or cushion its head, remove nearby
hard objects, and use a towel or blanket to cover the pet if it is thrashing.
Observe the animal closely. If the seizure does not end in five minutes,
call for emergency help.
In most cases, seizures last only minutes and the animal recovers uneventfully.
A single mild seizure is not an emergency and rarely indicates the need for long-term
treatment. However, at a convenient time, you should call and discuss the occurrence
with us. Be sure to record the date and duration of the seizure for reference in case
other seizures ensue.
Your pet’s well-being is important to us, as it is to you. If you have any
questions or problems or if you need more information, please give us a call. Be
careful to give all medications prescribed at proper times.
Thank you for selecting Delphos Animal Hospital to provide your veterinary
services.
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