Epilepsy in dogs is similar to that in humans. The main symptom is
a type of seizure. Seizures can come in many forms and several of
these are listed below.
Let's dive right in.
Epilepsy
in Dogs and the Types of Seizures
Generalized
Seizures
Generalized seizures are the most common type of seizures when it
comes to epilepsy in dogs.
There are several
variations of these seizures:
1. Absence seizures (petit mal): a sudden brief loss of
consciousness, rare in animals
2. Myoclonic seizures: muscle jerk of one or more muscles
3. Clonic seizures: rhythmic muscle contractions
4. Tonic seizures: increase in muscle tone in all skeletal muscles
5. Tonic Clonic seizures (grand mal): the most common form of
seizure in pets
Tonic
Clonic Seizures
These types of seizures account for 80% of seizures in regard to
epilepsy in dogs. They are usually accompanied by a loss of
consciousness.
They consist of a tonic phase, where the increased muscle tone
causes the animal to fall on its side with its limbs extended. And a
clonic phase, consisting of intense muscle jerking or paddling
movements.
In order to diagnose true epilepsy in dogs, other causes of seizures
must be first ruled out. Once a tentative diagnosis of epilepsy has
been made (by excluding all the other known causes of seizures),
the animal can be prescribed anticonvulsant drugs.
Drugs are Not Always Appropriate
With regard to epilepsy in dogs these drugs are not appropriate for
animals with seizures caused by a problem outside the brain. The
overall goal of anticonvulsant therapy is to eradicate all seizure
activity, but this is rarely achieved.
A more realistic goal is to reduce the frequency of the seizures to a
level that is acceptable for the owner. Without having negative side
effects for the animal.
CBD Oil for Epilepsy in Dogs
There is also promising anecdotal evidence reported by many pet
owners dealing with epilepsy in dogs that by giving all-natural
CBD oil to dogs helps reduce the frequency of seizures. And eases
the seizure symptoms. So this is another avenue worth exploring.
Since epilepsy in dogs is not curable, the owner must be prepared to
give medication to their dog for the rest of their life. But that is a
small price to pay for the love that your best friend gives you back
in return.
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