Causes of Epilepsy In Dogs.
In the past I have been asked this question a number of times Epilepsy, it’s not unusual in the dog, but it’s a subject rarely discussed, the single most noticeable and striking feature of this condition is of course fits.
Contrary to that, there are numerous other causes of epilepsy which must be considered, as in any canine which has a existing history of fits. We must also take into account the intake of poisons, Liver and kidney disorder, encephalitis infections, meningitis, congenital abnormalities brain tumours and many others. These must all be ruled out before a diagnosis of epilepsy can be arrived at. Many examinations may be crucial to rule out such conditions, In addition and the arrival of MRI scanning has added new possibilities to our repertoire. In spite of this, under numerous circumstances, a diagnosis of epilepsy is often arrived at merely by this course of elimination.
Particular breeds have a predisposition towards epilepsy, Mongrels, certainly feature highly, but it can occur in any breed. The first fit can take place at any age, but is often in young to middle aged dogs that are more susceptible to the condition.
So what is an epileptic fit? Well it is commonly described as the unrestrained release of electrical discharge in the brain. Certain dogs seem to have a tendency to this condition, and an owner will begin to learn certain trigger factors, which are involved in bringing on a fit. This could be the time of day, a loud noise, fireworks, during sleep, following exercise. And there are many more. Every dog seems to be different.
If you pet does have this disposition ask your vet for a Fit Record Card. This is a simple table in which the owner completes details of fits as they occur, including the following parameters: Date, Time, Length of fit, Description of symptoms, length of time to return to normal. As long as this is kept up to date, it gives the vet an “at a glance” history of the pattern and severity of the fits in this particular patient.
It is the PATTERN of fits, which matters. In most cases the fits themselves are short lasting, and little can be done at that time. The fit is usually over before action can be taken. Medication will be aimed at IMPROVING THE PATTERN, and making the fits less frequent, and less severe. Perhaps preventing them completely.
Petit Mal and Grand Mal are Fits involve the patient usually lying on its side, paddling with the paws, shaking and trembling, chattering teeth, and salivating. Sometimes uncontrolled urination and defecation may occur.
Petit Mal: these are short fits, or perhaps even mild episodes of trembling with only some of the minor symptoms of fits. They resolve of their own accord, usually in a matter of minutes, but the pattern is all-important if we are to prevent their recurrence. So, if this is the first fit you’ve seen, even though you don’t need the vet as an emergency measure, do take the patient to see the vet at the next convenient surgery, to assess the situation, your vet will be able to decide if medication is necessary. Drugs involved include Phenobarbitone, Mysoline, Epanutin (Phenytoin) and Potassium Bromide. Phenobarbitone and mysoline are usual first line drugs. Epanutin is often used to support one or other of these two, to enhance their actions. Generally, one starts at low dose rates, and builds up whilst monitoring the pattern of fits. Once control is achieved, then there is no need for a further dose increase, unless things later deteriorate.
Grand Mal: Is a severe fit. It may lead into “STATUS EPILEPTICUS” and this is the dangerous one. A fit which doesn’t stop, until medication brings it under control. A fit which is left to go on and on, can lead to severe brain damage.
TIPS: When a fit starts, look at the time. After 10 minutes, if the pet is still in a fit, you need to take the pet to the vet as quickly as possible. Most fits don’t last 10 minutes, and the vet will not be necessary as an emergency measure. But if the fit is on-going at 10 minutes, phone the vet and arrange to take the pet into the vet’s practice STRAIGHT AWAY. Calling the vet to your house is only likely to waste time. Action in your house will be limited indeed, and the vet will end up being a very expensive taxi to from and back to the veterinarians. This now brings on valid question:
How do you get a fitting dog to the vet?
The easiest way I have found and form my research is, lay out a blanket by the dog. Holding its paws, roll the dog over onto the blanket. Beware his teeth!! Dogs in a fit don’t know you, or what they’re doing! So care and forgiveness is required! Then get 2 people, one on each end of the blanket, to lift the dog by all 4 corners of the blanket, place it in the back of the car, and go quickly, but carefully to the vet’s practice.
A dog in status epilepticus needs intravenous injections of sedatives (e.g. valium) or anaesthetics (e.g. pentobarbitone) to stabilize its condition. And this can take many hours, or longer on some occasions. A period of hospitalization is highly likely.
In the early stages of both mysoline and phenobarbitone, the pet is likely to be quite sedated. And an increased thirst is also possible. However the dog will adapt, and these symptoms usually improve over a week or two. Once you start medication:
DON’T run out of pills! This is a well known trigger to Restarting Fits Again.
From time to time, your vet may wish to run blood tests. These can be used to monitor blood levels of phenobarbitone. And they can also be used to monitor liver function which can be affected by longterm medication.
**IF IN DOUBT Phone Your Vet’s**
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