Witnessing your dog have a seizure, especially if it is the first time, is something that can really scare any owner or caregiver. The episode can happen in both young and older dogs, but when it occurs in an older animal, the concern is usually even greater, since at this stage they may have more fragile health.
For those who have never seen a seizure before, the feeling is that something very serious is happening, and in fact, this can be an important warning sign, as there are several possible causes behind this behavior, ranging from metabolic changes and poisoning to neurological diseases.
When a dog is diagnosed with epilepsy, the owner usually recognizes what is happening, but that does not mean that the moment is any less distressing.
Some seizures may last longer, or the dog may take longer to regain consciousness and return to normal behavior, which naturally causes great concern.
"Therefore, regardless of the pet's age or health history, each episode deserves attention and proper evaluation," says Rita Zuanaze, veterinarian at the PetMoreTime Longevity Program.
What to do when an elderly dog is having seizures
The moment of convulsion often causes panic in the guardian, but the correct behavior makes a difference both for the dog's safety and for the evolution of the crisis.
During the seizure, the most important thing is not to physically interfere with the animal's body. Involuntary movements, muscle stiffness, and loss of consciousness are part of the seizure, and trying to hold, shake, or pick up the animal can cause injury.
The ideal thing to do is to remove objects from around the animal, reduce stimuli such as light and noise, and protect the animal from possible falls or trauma until the seizure stops.
Whenever possible, it is important to try to time the seizure, as its duration is essential clinical information for the veterinarian.
You should never put your hand in a dog's mouth or try to pull out its tongue. Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not "swallow their tongues," and doing so can result in serious bites.
After the seizure, it is common for the dog to be disoriented, wander aimlessly, have difficulty getting up, appear temporarily blind, or be extremely tired. During this period, let them rest and be comfortable.
Then take him to the vet immediately.
What is a seizure in dogs?
A seizure is a neurological event caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This disorganized discharge temporarily interferes with the animal's motor control, consciousness, and behavior.
It is important to understand that a seizure is not a disease, but rather a set of clinical signs. It indicates that something is altering the normal functioning of the brain or the body as a whole.
In older dogs, this point is even more relevant, as many seizures are associated with diseases acquired throughout their lives.
Types of seizures in dogs
Seizures can manifest themselves in different ways. Some involve the entire body, with intense rigidity, tremors, and complete loss of consciousness.
Others are more localized, affecting only part of the face or a limb, or causing mild muscle spasms.
In older dogs, focal seizures or partial seizures deserve special attention, as they are often associated with structural changes in the brain, such as tumors or vascular sequelae.
Symptoms of seizures in older dogs
The signs of a seizure are not always limited to the moment of the crisis. Often, the guardian notices changes before and after the episode.
During the seizure, the following may occur:
- Intense tremors;
- Muscle spasms;
- Body stiffness;
- Involuntary movements of the legs;
- Loss of consciousness;
- Excessive drooling;
- Foam in the mouth.
- The dog may also urinate or defecate involuntarily.
What can cause seizures in older dogs?
Unlike young dogs, in which idiopathic epilepsy (primary and without a defined cause) is more common, seizures in older dogs are usually related to acquired diseases.
Brain changes, such as tumors, strokes, and inflammatory processes, are among the most common causes. In addition, metabolic problems, especially changes in the liver, kidneys, or glucose levels, can also trigger seizures.
Poisoning, improper use of medications and even systemic infections can interfere with the functioning of the central nervous system, leading to seizures.
Therefore, the first seizure in an elderly dog should never be treated as an isolated incident or "normal for their age" and should be evaluated by a specialist veterinarian as soon as possible.
Treatment of seizures in older dogs
Treatment depends directly on the identified cause. Before focusing solely on controlling the seizure, it is essential to investigate why it is happening.
Laboratory tests help identify metabolic changes, while imaging tests allow for the evaluation of possible brain injuries.
Based on this, the veterinarian determines the most appropriate strategy.
Medicine for seizures in elderly dogs
Do not medicate your dog without the guidance of a veterinarian.
Anticonvulsant drugs, such as phenobarbital, potassium bromide, or levetiracetam, are often used to control seizures. These are controlled substances and require a veterinary prescription.
However, it is common for some guardians to report dogs having seizures even while taking Gardenal, which does not necessarily mean that the treatment has failed.
In many cases, it is necessary to adjust doses, combine medications, or treat the underlying cause to achieve adequate seizure control.
Medication without veterinary guidance or abrupt discontinuation of the medication can significantly worsen the seizures.
Is there a cure for seizures in older dogs?
The possibility of a cure depends on the cause of the seizure.
In situations such as poisoning or correctable metabolic changes, control can be complete. In cases of brain tumors or neurodegenerative diseases, however, the focus is usually on controlling seizures and preserving quality of life.
Even when there is no cure, many older dogs can live for years with proper care and management.
Epilepsy in dogs vs. seizures: what is the relationship?
A seizure is the clinical event. Epilepsy is the condition in which these seizures become recurrent, without an identifiable reversible metabolic or structural cause.
Idiopathic epilepsy usually occurs in young and middle-aged dogs. In older dogs, when there are recurrent seizures, we usually refer to acquired epilepsy, associated with brain or systemic diseases.
This distinction is important because it directly impacts the prognosis and therapeutic approach.
Frequently asked questions about seizures in older dogs
What are the consequences of a seizure in dogs?
Prolonged or very frequent seizures can cause neurological damage, behavioral changes, and progressive cognitive decline, especially in older dogs.
What is good to give to a dog with seizures?
During the crisis, no food or medication should be administered. The correct treatment should only be started after veterinary evaluation and diagnosis of the cause.
When is a seizure cause for concern?
Seizures that last longer than five minutes, recur on the same day, or occur for the first time in an older dog are always considered cause for concern and require immediate evaluation.
How long does a dog with epilepsy live?
Life expectancy varies depending on the cause, response to treatment, and frequency of seizures. Many dogs live for long periods when properly managed.
Can seizures in older dogs be fatal?
Yes. Prolonged, repeated, or severe crises can lead to serious complications and even death, which reinforces the importance of early diagnosis.
Does a dog feel pain during a seizure?
In most cases, no. During a seizure, the dog is usually unconscious or has altered consciousness, which reduces pain perception. Discomfort usually occurs after the seizure, when the dog may be disoriented, very tired, or in pain if it was injured during the episode.
How PetMoreTime can help
PetMoreTime continuously monitors your dog's aging process.
With science-based monitoring, it is possible to take action before silent signs turn into serious crises.
Discover PetMoreTime's Longevity Program and take care of your dog's longevity with information, monitoring, and science.
