There are two types of epileptic fits. The first type is called Grand
Mal, where the animal falls or slumps to the ground. Petite Mal is the second
form of epilepsy. This is where the animal stays on its feet.
Signs
If you notice your pet having a seizure, do not try to take hold
of its tongue, you may be bitten by the unconscious animal champing its jaws. Observe the
dog but do not touch it, touching the dog during a seizure may aggravate the dog and
prolong the fit. A dog with congenital epilepsy may initially show signs such as dilated
pupils, apprehension, restlessness, followed with foaming at the mouth, champing of the
jaw, facial twitching, head shaking, collapse, lying on its side rigid with its head back,
unconscious, and may be defecating or urination. The seizures will usually last from one to
three minutes. Recovery may be quick or the animal may remain confused or disoriented for
hours. Once recovered, see your veterinarian. If the seizure last for more than five
minutes, you need to take the animal to the veterinarian immediately!
Treatment
Treatment by your veterinarian will vary due to the cause.
Usually a drug given daily to control the epileptic fits.
Causes
Trauma, a blow to the head.
Poisoning, slug and snail poisoning, toxins, and insecticide
rinses.
Brain Tumors.
Infection, viral or bacterial.
Low blood sugar level.
Severe case of worms.
Milk Fever, low calcium level in the blood.
External stimulation, such as loud music or noises, hot weather,
over excitement.
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