Canine Seizures: 6 Potential Causes

Canine seizures can have a number of causes ranging from epilepsy to brain tumors to poisoning.

Identifying a Canine Seizure

When your dog has a canine seizure, the signs are distinctive. Your dog's muscles will contract uncontrollably, and his jaws may begin to tremble or snap as if he were chewing gum. He may lose consciousness, and he may hallucinate. He may even lose control of his bowels and bladder.

Some dogs may drool, run in circles, pace, or become aggressive while in the grip of a canine seizure.

Causes of Canine Seizures

There are several potential cause of canine seizures. They include:

  • Epilepsy
  • Brain tumors
  • Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
  • Thyroid dysfunction
  • Distemper
  • Poisoning

How to Cope With Canine Seizures

If your dog begins to seizure, make sure that he is safe while convulsing; put him on the ground or floor. Do not put your hand into your dog's mouth while he is experiencing a canine seizure, as his jaws could suddenly snap closed.

Canine seizures are usually not painful to your dog, but if they continue for longer than two minutes they could put his health at risk. Your dog may need anti-convulsant medication to treat his canine seizures.

 

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