Don't Panic! What to do if your pet has a seizure

Seizures can be terrifying to witness, but here's what you need to know to help your pet and stay safe.

First, look at the clock.

• A minute can feel like an hour when you're watching your pet paddle. 
• Get vet care if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes

Next, make sure your pet can't harm themselves or others

• block off nearby stairs 
• gently hold them in place on the couch or move them to the floor if possible  
• move sharp objects away 
  
• keep your hands and face away from your pet's head since they could bite you accidentally

What to expect during a seizure:
    - can fall over, paddle limbs, tremble, snap their jaws
    - are unconscious and do not respond to your voice or touch
    - can vomit, drool, pee, and poop
    - focal seizures are less dramatic and can involve just the head
    - there can be a period before and after the seizure where your pet acts differently

After the seizure:
If this is a first seizure, look around for any potentially toxic medications, plants, or household supplies your pet may have ingested and seek emergency vet care if you suspect poisoning. If there's no chance of poisoning, make an appointment with your regular vet for a full exam and bloodwork to look for any underlying cause.

For a diabetic pet, carefully drip honey, karo syrup, or maple syrup on your pets' gums in case the seizure is being caused by low blood sugar.

​Most young animals who have seizures do not have a specific cause, but it's important to rule out all the diseases listed above so that we can treat them if possible. We call these dogs and cats epileptic. 

Most seizures are not actually dangerous to your pet. Dogs with epilepsy who have seizures lasting less than 5 minutes and occurring less than once per month don't usually require medication. We use medications for pets with clusters of seizures, long seizures, frequent seizures, or long side effects after a seizure (like temporary blindness). Medications like potassium bromide, phenobarbital, and levetiracetam can be used to prevent the seizures. Valium is often given in emergencies to stop an ongoing seizure. Some patients can also respond to nutritional management (Purina ProPlan Neurocare) and/or adding in supplements based on cannabis developed specifically for pets (but do not give human cannabis to pets!). 

All graphics gratefully reprinted with permission from www.canna-pet.com