Seizures and Epilepsy in Dogs
Seizures and Epilepsy in Dogs
An integrative approach can be an effective way to treat these conditions
Epilepsy and Seizures: What's the Difference?
The disease of "epilepsy" is not very well understood by Western conventional veterinary medicine, especially in dogs and cats.
There is no cure, and treatments are designed to suppress biochemical reactions and "slow the excitability" of the neurons.
Dogs who have seizures might not have true epilepsy but may be responding to physical, environmental, or emotional stress while experiencing compromised brain function due to factors such as:
- Lack of proper nutrition
- Aging
- Hereditary influences
- A buildup of heavy metals in the brain from food and water
A stroke can be classified as a type of seizure and may reoccur, causing progressive signs such as:
- Permanent head tilt
- Deafness
- Blindness
- Vertigo
Conditions That Can Lead to Seizures
Many conditions can result in seizure activity in dogs.
If we want to affect a cure for the problem, it's important to track back and determine whether any potential triggers may have been overlooked.
Some of these include:
- Chronic exposure to pesticides and toxins
- Drug reactions (Proin, Heartgard®/Ivermectin, Fipronil, etc.)
- Food allergy reactions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Brain tumors
- Genetic predisposition
- Cervical vertebral luxation
- Kidney disease
- Eclampsia (milk fever)
- Hepatitis, liver disease, or metabolic syndrome
- Idiopathic causes
Additional Factors to Consider
Low blood glucose reaching the brain may also contribute to seizure activity.
A condition that appears to be common in certain breeds experiencing seizures is hypothyroidism.
Breeds mentioned include:
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- Doberman Pinschers
- German Shepherds
- Rhodesian Ridgebacks
More recently, veterinarians in the United States have reported seizures occurring after multiple vaccinations, especially rabies vaccinations.
Seizures in Senior Dogs
Seizures in geriatric dogs (eight years of age and older) can result from metabolic and biochemical disturbances affecting the brain.
These disturbances may be associated with:
- Poor circulation
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Mineral deficiencies
- Fatty infiltration
- Chronic infections
- Liver dysfunction
- Cardiac deficiencies
- A buildup of heavy metals and pesticides
Every Dog Is Different
Different dogs may react in a variety of ways during a seizure.
There are many different types of seizures, and understanding the underlying cause is often an important step in determining the most appropriate treatment approach.
Authored by: IVC Fall 2022
