Seizures in pets can be alarming and distressing for any pet owner. Recognizing the warning signs can make all the difference in ensuring your pet’s safety, whether it’s sudden shaking, muscle stiffness, or loss of consciousness. While seizures can stem from various underlying conditions, knowing how to respond effectively during an episode can help prevent further complications.
1. Uncontrollable Shaking And Trembling
The most noticeable sign of a seizure is uncontrollable shaking and trembling. Your pet’s entire body might stiffen and then begin to shake violently. This typically occurs during the “ictal phase” of a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. The convulsions can last from a few seconds to several minutes.
2. Loss Of Consciousness
If your pet is having a seizure, it might appear dazed, confused, or completely unresponsive. Your dog might lose awareness of its surroundings and be unable to recognize or respond to commands. This altered mental state can occur before, during, or after the seizure.
3. Muscle Stiffening
Muscle stiffening is another common sign of a seizure, particularly in the animal’s legs, which may become rigid. This is part of the “tonic” phase of a tonic-clonic seizure. Your dog might fall over and become stiff before the convulsions begin.
4. Chomping Or Biting Motions
Your pet might appear to be chewing gum or biting the air. This strange action might be accompanied by excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth. These involuntary jaw movements are common during seizures and can sometimes lead to accidental tongue biting.
5. Loss Of Bodily Control
During a seizure, it’s also common for dogs to urinate or defecate involuntarily due to the loss of muscle control. This is a common occurrence and should not be a cause for additional concern.
6. Facial Twitching
Look out for facial twitching. This can include repetitive movements of the lips, eyelids, or ears. These focal seizures may be limited to a specific area of the face. Now that we know what to look out for, here is what you can do if you think your dog is having a seizure:
1. Stay Calm
When you’re in a stressful situation, keeping your composure is very important to handle the situation effectively. Dogs can often sense their owner’s anxiety, which might increase their stress. Take deep breaths and try to maintain a reassuring presence.
2. Ensure Safety
Ensure your pet is safe by moving objects to prevent further injury. If you can, try gently sliding your pet to a safe area using a blanket or towel. Place soft cushions around them to prevent injury caused by involuntary movements.
3. Time The Seizure
Keep track of time. If the seizure lasts longer than 2 to 3 minutes, it’s a medical emergency. If a seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, it can lead to brain damage.
4. Keep The Environment Calm
Reduce noise and dim the lights to minimize stimulation. This can help reduce post-seizure disorientation. Speak to your pet in a soft voice if they seem aware of your presence.
5. Cool Your Pet Down
If the seizure lasts for a while, use a fan or wet towels to prevent overheating. Seizures can cause a dangerous increase in body temperature. Try dipping your pet’s paws into cool water.
6. Contact Your Veterinarian
Call your veterinarian immediately if it’s your pet’s first seizure, lasts more than 3-4 minutes, or if there are repeated seizures. Provide as much information as possible about the seizure, including its duration and any unusual behaviors before or after.
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