What Is Epilepsy in Dogs?
Epilepsy in dogs causes brain seizures that can occur at any time without warning. Fortunately, pharmaceutical treatment options are available to help control canine epilepsy by decreasing the frequency and limiting the severity of seizures.
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Causes
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Epilepsy in dogs can be caused by ingesting toxic plant material, being exposed to chemical toxins, low blood sugar, heart disease, head trauma, brain tumors, stroke or hereditary disposition.
Symptoms
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A dog suffering from an epileptic seizure will often stiffen its muscles and fall down losing consciousness. Twitching, drooling, vocalizing and loss of bodily functions may occur during the seizure. Most dogs appear to be disoriented after the seizure has passed.
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Effects
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Epilepsy in dogs can lead to permanent brain damage if seizures occur on a regular basis and are left untreated.
Treatment Options
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Pharmaceutical treatment options for canine epilepsy include Phenobarbital, Diazepam and potassium bromide. Special canine diets and surgery may be treatment options in certain cases.
Warning
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Missing even one dose of canine epilepsy medicine can increase the risk of seizures.
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