

Reactive seizures occur secondary to metabolic disease or toxin exposure (that affect a dog’s otherwise healthy brain). What causes seizures in dogs?Įxcessive excitation in the brain resulting in a seizure can happen due to the following causes: Seizures occur when there is imbalance in these mechanisms, favoring sudden excitation and increased firing of neurons. Normal neuronal activity represents a healthy balance between excitatory and inhibitory influences. Neurotransmitters may excite or inhibit other neurons. The cerebral cortex is made up of a large number of neurons that communicate with each other via chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. Seizures always indicate dysfunction in the forebrain (the cerebral cortex). How would you define a dog seizure?Ī seizure is a transient manifestation of signs due to abnormal, excessive activity of neurons in the brain. Here are signs that indicate that your dog may be experiencing a seizure and what to do in that situation. The prevalence of canine epilepsy is estimated to be between 0.5-5-7 percent. This means that as many as 1 in 20 dogs may experience a seizure in their lifetime. Epilepsy is a chronic condition characterized by recurring seizures these often occur unpredictably which presents a further challenge for owners. For most dog owners, witnessing a beloved pet have a seizure is a scary experience. Seizures are the most commonly reported neurological problem in dogs.
