Convulsions – First Aid

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Convulsions – First Aid

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Seizures and Convulsions: First Aid

A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled body movement caused by abnormal brain activity. Seizures can affect the whole body or be mild and localized. The pet may lose consciousness or urinate involuntarily. A seizure lasting longer than 3 to 5 minutes can cause severe side effects like pulmonary or cerebral edema, hyperthermia, and irreversible organ damage.

Main Causes & Care

– Under 1 year: Often a birth defect (hydrocephalus, portosystemic shunt).
– 1 to 5 years: Typically essential epilepsy.
– Over 5 years: Brain tumor, stroke, toxins, or hypoglycemia.
Lab tests are necessary to find the underlying cause. Medications (phenobarbital, Keppra, potassium bromide) can well control 3 out of 4 dogs. Seizures remain rare in cats.

What to Do

➤ Protect from injury: Keep the pet away from heights, bodies of water, and isolate other animals (risk of post-seizure aggression).
➤ Time & Observe: Record the exact duration and the body part affected first.
➤ Over 3 minutes: Cool the ears, belly, and paws with cool water and seek immediate veterinary care.
➤ Multiple seizures (2+ in 24h): Seek urgent veterinary care.
➤ Breathing stops: If the pet is unconscious and not breathing, begin CPR.

[ ! ] What NOT to Do

* DO NOT put your hands in the mouth: Pets DO NOT swallow their tongue. You risk a severe bite.
* DO NOT try to startle them: Do not slap or throw water on them. The seizure will end on its own.

Toy Breeds & Diabetics

In toy breeds (Yorkshire, Maltese) or diabetic pets on insulin, the seizure may be caused by hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

– If the pet is standing and conscious: Offer a small meal.
– If the pet is convulsing or unresponsive: Rub honey or maple syrup on their gums (careful not to get bitten) and seek emergency care immediately.

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