Seizures in Dogs and Cats can happen at any time or any stage of life. Causes for seizures can include an ingestion of a toxin (such as mouldy food or snail bait) or can be due to problems in the body (such as liver or kidney disease) or can be due to epilepsy. Sometimes they can be caused by other problems in the brain.
It can be very frightening to see your pet having a seizure. Sometimes the signs may be very mild (with tremors of the legs maybe or twitching of the face and mouth) but they can also include sudden howling, falling over and paddling and losing bladder control. Most seizures last only 1-3 minutes (but some can be longer) and most animals are very disorientated and possibly pace back and forth for about 20 minutes to half an hour afterwards. If the seizure is due to a toxin then the seizure may not stop without seeking immediate veterinary treatment.
If your pet has a seizure stay away from their mouth - they will NOT swallow their tongue, but they may bite you without realising it. Cushions and blankets can be used to surround or gently restrain or carry your pet to try and prevent any additional trauma. If you think that your pet is having or has had a seizure please seek immediate veterinary attention. If you are in Greater Melbourne or surrounds please call 9092 0400 for immediate veterinary assistance.
Advanced Vetcare is a 24hr emergency veterinary clinic. Map and Directions are available here.