What Should You do if Your Pet is Having a Seizure?

A seizure is a sudden and uncontrolled burst of electrical activity in the brain. It can cause a pet to lose consciousness, convulse, or exhibit behavior that puts themselves or their owners at risk. If your pet has a convulsion in McKinney, TX, it is important to know how to keep them safe and help them recover.

We understand that a seizure is a frightening experience for you and your pet, but knowing how to handle the situation makes all the difference. Below, Dr. Hunter Finn explains what causes seizures and what happens if your pet has one. Call Pet Method right away for an urgent care appointment at our animal hospital if your furry friend has an immediate health issue.

What causes seizures?

There are several kinds of seizures a pet can experience based on their health and environmental factors. For example, reactive seizures occur in response to specific stimuli like a metabolic disease or a toxin. Structural diseases, such as a tumor, stroke, degenerative process, or infection, also cause convulsions. And, of course, epilepsy is the most common seizure disorder in pets.

What does a seizure look like?

Seizure symptoms vary among pets, but you can generally expect them to convulse and lose consciousness. They may paddle with their legs, drool, chomp their jaws, or urinate and defecate. Seizures last a short period, usually between 30 seconds and two minutes, but can be shorter or longer. Pet owners in McKinney, TX should recognize the signs of a seizure so they can take appropriate action.

What to do if your pet has a seizure

If your pet has a seizure, stay calm and try not to restrain them. They can still bite or scratch you by accident. Move any objects out of their reach to prevent them from injuring themselves. Once the convulsions subside, your pet may be tired. It is best to let them rest in a quiet, dark place until they have fully recovered. Call our animal hospital right away to schedule an appointment so we can determine the best course of action moving forward.

How to videotape the seizure

Dr. Finn may ask you to videotape the seizure so we can gain a better understanding of their situation. To get the best footage, make sure the camera is stable and focus on your pet's head and body. Be sure to include the date and time of the seizure as well as any other relevant information, such as what your pet was doing before the episode began. This allows us to provide the best possible care for your furry friend.

What happens during an urgent care appointment?

Dr. Finn will want to know how long the seizure lasted, what symptoms your pet exhibited during the seizure, and if there have been any changes in their behavior or routine. A physical examination, blood work, and imaging services may be recommended during this appointment.

Once we have a diagnosis, Pet Method can develop a treatment plan that may include medication, dietary changes, or other therapies.

Protect your pet from seizures

We know that sudden or unexpected convulsions are scary, but our team at Pet Method is here to help. Dr. Hunter Finn can provide information and resources about seizures as well as urgent care appointments to get your pet the treatment they need. Call our McKinney, TX team to learn more and see why we are the preferred animal hospital for many pet owners in the area.