What is Canine Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures that occur when neurons in the brain exhibit abnormal electrical discharges. In dogs, it is a relatively common neurological condition, with an estimated 0.5–1% of all dogs experiencing it.
Classification of Epilepsy
| Classification | Cause | Characteristics |
|---|
| Idiopathic Epilepsy (True Epilepsy) | Genetic / No structural abnormalities in the brain | Most common. Tends to occur in medium to large breeds. Hereditary |
| Symptomatic Epilepsy | Brain tumors, encephalitis, head trauma, etc. | Treatment of the underlying condition is necessary |
| Cryptogenic Epilepsy | Presumed cause but cannot be identified | Cause not found on CT or MRI |
Dog Breeds Predisposed to Epilepsy
Certain breeds such as Border Collies, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Beagles, German Shepherds, Dachshunds, and Shetland Sheepdogs (Shelties) are known to have genetic predispositions to epilepsy.
Types of Seizures and Signs
Before a Seizure (Aura / Prodromal Phase)
In the seconds to minutes before a seizure, behavioral changes such as the following may be observed:
- Clinging to the owner or pacing anxiously
- Anxious expression and dilated pupils
- Vomiting and increased salivation
Types of Seizures
Generalized Seizures (Convulsive Seizures)
The most dramatic seizure type and the most noticeable to owners.
- Loss of consciousness with the dog falling to its side
- Limbs paddle rhythmically (paddling seizure)
- Generalized stiffness and muscle rigidity
- Excessive drooling and possible loss of urinary or bowel control
- Eye tremor (nystagmus)
Focal Seizures (Partial Seizures)
Seizures caused by abnormal electrical discharge from a localized brain region, affecting only a specific area rather than the entire body:
- One side of the face twitches
- Lip smacking or mouth movements (automatism)
- Twitching of a single limb
- Consciousness may be retained (though altered consciousness can occur in complex partial seizures)
After a Seizure (Recovery / Postictal Phase)
In the 10 minutes to several hours following a seizure, the following signs may be observed:
- Exhaustion and lethargy
- Temporary vision impairment (bumping into walls or obstacles)
- Sudden increase in appetite
- Excessive thirst
What to Do During a Seizure
During a Seizure
- Stay calm and observe: Keep a safe distance and watch carefully to avoid injury to yourself
- Remove hazards: Place soft objects around the dog to prevent the head and body from hitting furniture, stairs, or hard surfaces
- Do not place hands or objects in the dog's mouth: Tongue biting during seizures is rare; the greater risk is being bitten
- Create a dark, quiet environment: Minimize exposure to light and sound stimulation
- Time the seizure: Record the duration from start to finish (video recording is also helpful)
When Emergency Veterinary Care is Needed
| Situation | Reason |
|---|
| Seizure lasts 5 minutes or longer | Risk of status epilepticus. Risk of brain damage |
| Two or more seizures within 24 hours | Risk of status epilepticus |
| Consciousness does not return within 1 hour after seizure | Possible severe brain problem |
| First-time seizure | Diagnostic evaluation needed |
| Seizure in water or bathtub | Drowning risk; move to a safe location immediately |
Diagnosis at a Veterinary Hospital
Always seek veterinary care after the first seizure. The following diagnostic tests will be performed:
Basic Examination
- Blood work and urinalysis (to rule out metabolic or toxic causes)
- Blood glucose measurement (to differentiate from hypoglycemia-induced seizures)
- Blood pressure measurement
Imaging Studies
- MRI (most accurate evaluation of structural brain abnormalities)
- CT (to identify brain tumors or head trauma)
Electroencephalography (EEG): Available at select university-affiliated hospitals and neurology specialty hospitals in Japan
Treatment and Medication Management
Pharmacotherapy
Treatment of epilepsy primarily involves anticonvulsant medication (AED). The goal is not to completely stop seizures but rather to "reduce seizure frequency and severity."
Common Anticonvulsant Medications
| Medication | Characteristics | Side Effects |
|---|
| Phenobarbital | First-line choice for canine epilepsy. Efficacy is well-established | Increased thirst and urination, liver function effects (requires periodic blood work) |
| Potassium Bromide (KBr) | Often used in combination with phenobarbital | Hind limb weakness (with high doses), increased urination |
| Levetiracetam | Newer option with fewer side effects | Sedation, reduced appetite (mild) |
| Zonisamide | Relatively easy to use within Japan | Loss of appetite, vomiting (common during initiation) |
Medication Precautions
- Never discontinue medication without veterinary guidance: Abrupt discontinuation can trigger rebound seizures
- Regular blood concentration monitoring and blood work are necessary (phenobarbital typically requires monthly to quarterly testing)
- The first 2–4 weeks after starting medication is an evaluation period. Continued treatment is important even if effects are not immediately apparent
How to Keep a Seizure Diary
A "seizure diary" is extremely valuable for medication management and seizure monitoring:
- Date, time, and duration of seizures
- Type of seizure (generalized or focal?)
- Circumstances before the seizure (before/after meals, after exercise, during sleep, etc.)
- Recovery time and condition after the seizure
Smartphone apps (such as "EpiDog") can be helpful for tracking.
Daily Life Management
When living with an epileptic dog, pay attention to the following:
Creating a Safe Environment
- Pay special attention to stairs and level changes (to prevent falls during seizures)
- Water hazards such as pools or bathtubs pose a drowning risk. Never leave your dog unattended during bathing
- Place seizure mats or cushions on hard floors
Trigger Management
For some dogs, the following can trigger seizures:
- Excessive excitement or stress
- Sleep deprivation
- Flashing lights (in cases of photosensitive epilepsy)
- Sudden temperature changes
Exercise and Diet
Maintain regular exercise and a consistent diet. Keeping meal times consistent and avoiding rapid blood sugar fluctuations can also help prevent seizures.
Long-Term Management and Prognosis
Many dogs with idiopathic epilepsy can maintain a good quality of life (QOL) with proper medication management. Even when seizures cannot be completely controlled, reducing frequency and severity allows for a long, comfortable life.
Calm owner response, careful record-keeping, regular veterinary visits, and consistent medication management are key to long-term care. Don't bear the burden alone; work together with your veterinarian to provide the best care for your beloved dog.
