Different forms of epilepsy
In dogs, three main forms of epilepsy are distinguished.
Primary epilepsy (idiopathic epilepsy)
This is the most common form in dogs. No clear cause can be identified, and it is assumed that there is a hereditary or genetic predisposition.
This form usually begins in young dogs between 6 months and 6 years of age.
Secondary epilepsy
In secondary epilepsy, seizures are caused by a detectable condition in the brain, such as:
- brain tumours
- brain inflammation
- brain injury or trauma
- congenital brain abnormalities
In these cases, treatment mainly focuses on the underlying cause.
Reactive epilepsy
In reactive epilepsy, the brain reacts to a problem outside the brain, such as:
- poisoning
- liver problems
- severe disturbances in blood sugar levels
- electrolyte imbalances
When the underlying cause is treated, seizures often disappear.
Different types of epileptic seizures
Not every seizure looks the same. Different types of seizures are distinguished.
Generalised seizures
These are the classic epileptic seizures involving the entire brain.
Symptoms may include:
- collapse
- stiffening
- paddling movements with the legs
- salivation
- loss of urine or faeces
- loss of consciousness
Focal (partial) seizures
Only part of the brain is involved. Symptoms are often more subtle, such as:
- trembling of one leg or muscle group
- abnormal eye movements
- strange behaviour
- snapping at the air
- sudden anxiety or restlessness
Atypical seizures
Some seizures do not clearly fit into the above categories. Dogs may:
- suddenly stiffen
- collapse without convulsions
- appear temporarily disoriented
How does an epileptic seizure progress?
An epileptic seizure usually consists of three phases.
Aura (pre-phase)
Some dogs show abnormal behaviour before a seizure, such as:
- restlessness
- seeking attention
- hiding
- panting
- drooling
Not all dogs show this phase.
Ictus (the seizure itself)
This is when the actual seizure occurs. This phase usually lasts from a few seconds to a few minutes.
Post-ictal phase (recovery phase)
After the seizure, the dog may show abnormal behaviour for some time, such as:
- disorientation
- restless wandering
- appearing temporarily blind
- extreme hunger or thirst
- fatigue
- This phase can last from minutes to hours.
Dog breeds in which epilepsy is more common
In some breeds, epilepsy occurs more frequently. Examples include:
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- Border Collie
- Australian Shepherd
- Beagle
- German Shepherd
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Keeshond
- Sheltie
- Poodle
- Vizsla
- Irish Setter
- Weimaraner
- Drentsche Patrijshond
- Stabyhoun
DNA tests are now available for some breeds to detect hereditary epilepsy.
How is epilepsy diagnosed?
Primary epilepsy is a diagnosis of exclusion. This means other causes must first be ruled out.
The vet may perform:
- a thorough physical examination
- blood tests
- urine tests
- neurological examination
- possibly an MRI scan of the brain
Only after other causes are excluded is idiopathic epilepsy diagnosed.
When should epilepsy be treated?
Not every dog with epilepsy needs immediate medication. Treatment is usually started when:
- seizures occur more than 1–2 times within 6 months
- seizures are severe
- the recovery phase is long
- the frequency of seizures increases rapidly
Nowadays, vets often start treatment earlier than in the past, especially in breeds with hereditary epilepsy.
Immediate treatment is necessary in:
- Clustering: multiple seizures within a short time (minutes to hours)
- Status epilepticus: a seizure lasting longer than 10 minutes, which is life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary care
Goal of epilepsy treatment
The ideal outcome is that the dog becomes completely seizure-free. This is achieved in approximately 60–70% of dogs.
If that is not possible, the aim is to:
- increase the time between seizures
- shorten the duration of seizures
- reduce the severity of seizures
In some dogs, a minimum interval of three months between seizures is targeted.
Support with diet and supplements
In primary epilepsy, it may be beneficial to use diet and supplements alongside medication.
Supplements
Supportive supplements include:
CBD oil is also sometimes used. CBD may influence serotonin receptors in the brain, making nerve cells less likely to become overactive.
Diet with MCT fatty acids
Research shows that MCT fatty acids may have a positive effect on brain function and seizure control.
Examples of specialised diets:
Medication for epilepsy
When seizures are not sufficiently controlled, medication may be necessary.
Commonly used drugs include:
- Phenobarbital
- Imepitoin (Pexion)
- Potassium bromide (Epikal)
- Levetiracetam (Keppra)
- Epitard (phenytoin)
Additional drugs may include:
Sometimes a combination of multiple medications is needed to control epilepsy effectively.
Drug-resistant epilepsy
In approximately 30% of dogs, standard medication is not sufficiently effective. This is referred to as drug-resistant epilepsy.
In such cases, a combination of multiple medications, adjusted diet and supplements may help improve seizure control.
Epilepsy in dogs can be a serious condition, but with the right treatment and guidance, many dogs can live a good and happy life. It is important to work closely with your vet to create a tailored treatment plan and to monitor changes in seizure patterns.
Do you have questions about epilepsy in your dog or would you like advice on diet or supplements? Please contact us via veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk.
