Things To Be Aware Of About Canine Epilepsy

Unfortunately for dogs, epilepsy can either be inherited or it may even be caused by the preservatives in the food that they eat. There are certain breeds that are more likely to experience this condition than others. There are three different types that may possibly present in a canine. Most animals affected by canine epilepsy can be treated by a change in their diet and with proper medication and monitoring.

A certain genetic basis for seizures has actual been proven in the breeds of Beagles, German Shepherds, Dachshunds, Belgian Tervurens and Keeshonds. There is some evidence that suggests that the English Springer Spaniel may also be predisposed genetically. The condition is quite common in dogs and even when not inherited, they may develop it over the course of their lifetime. Seizures have been linked to conditions related to the thyroid as well and this should be tested initially at diagnosis.

Changing the dogs diet is going to be the first and one of the best courses of treatment to avoid preservatives that are likely to be causing the problem. For breeds that are at particularly high risk anyway, foods that contain preservatives should be avoided from the beginning to eliminate the development of the condition. Check labels closely regarding preservatives in food; it will be clear on packaging.

The three various type of epilepsy that may occur with canines are reactive, secondary and primary. Seizures labeled as reactive involve the metabolic system. These are always related to either low blood sugar, kidney failure or liver failure.

Secondary is also known as symptomatic and can be caused by problems such as stroke or tumors in the brain. Trauma is also known to bring on this type of epilepsy. This type is labeled due to a particular known cause.

Primary or idiopathic seizures are labeled as such due to having no known cause. This diagnosis is reached when all other probable conditions have been completely eliminated. These are likely to begin in dogs that are in the age group of one and three.

There are several types of seizures that may occur lasting from momentary periods to repetitive occurrences. Petit mal are mild and may only be staring for a brief period of time. Grand mal are moderate and may last for as long as three minutes with the animal losing consciousness. Status epilepticus and cluster seizures can both be life threatening and it is difficult in some cases to differentiate between the two; lasting up to more than ten minutes with a loss of consciousness and repeating.

Several excellent medications can be used for treatment including potassium bromide, Phenobarbital and Valium. Phenobarbital is often the first drug to be administered, but the liver function must be closely monitored to prevent damage. Should damage occur, the patient is then changed to potassium bromide for further treatment. Valium is often used for the more serious seizures described and it can be given rectally, orally or injected. There are over the counter treatments that can benefit the pet after a seizure has happened due to canine epilepsy to speed up recovery time and this should be discussed with the veterinarian.