Complete Explanation Of Seizures In Dogs

There are several reasons that this condition may present itself in your pet aside from epilepsy which we are all familiar with. Some possible causes are related to brain tumors, head injuries, diseases that may be contracted such as distemper and Lyme, and even genetics can play a part. Seizures in dogs can be found in several types, as well as contracted in several different ways.

The first type can present in both mild and more severe forms (Grand Mal) is classified as Generalized. This Generalized seizure type can also be divided into two separate phases called the Tonic and Clonic, which are likely to cause a pet to mimic the behavior of running in place and lose their balance. Petit Mal is the second type, but is rarely seen in canines, and it can result in periods of unconsciousness with the eyes rolling in an upward motion.

Partial is the third classification type and it has the possibility of progressing into a Generalized type. A Partial will usually affect a particular part of the body, or one particular limb. It may only be noticeable by movements that are repetitive and jerking in a particular area on more than one occasion.

Classification type four is the Complex Partial which may include a number of more complex behaviors. It has been known to cause both visual and sensory events that will cause an animal to repeatedly perform a particular act. For instance, it becomes likely that a pet may uncontrollably lick the lips, bite on a particular paw, or even take of running for no reason.

Status Epilepticus is classification type number five and has a duration of anywhere between five and thirty minutes. This type is known to be life-threatening in certain circumstances, and it often can be difficult to record the number that actually takes place in a particular time frame. Type classification number six on the list are known as Cluster Seizures and these are very similar to Status Epilepticus and almost impossible to tell them apart.

Not only are there different types, but there are also different phases associated with this problem. There are generally three phases that each pet will go through during an episode. These phases include the Pre-Ictal, Ictal, and Post-Ictal Phases.

In a Pre-Ictal phase, the pet can be found to be experiencing feelings of uneasiness and often whining for a period of a few minutes to a few hours. When this phase has progressed into the Ictal Phase, the seizure should have already started and spastic motions of some of the muscles should be visible. In most cases, the pet will have fallen down unable to maintain their balance at this point.

Should this particular phase last longer than five minutes it then becomes type Status Epilepticus as described above. It is quite possible for many pets to lose control of their bowels at this time. It is likely that the pet will be confused, disoriented and even lose their sight for brief periods during the Post-Ictal Phase.

Should your pet experience any type that has been described, never attempt to restrain them in any way. Also, never attempt to place any object in their mouth to protect the tongue. The best thing to do for seizures in dogs is remain calm and keep the area free from objects that might injure the animal.