Treatment FAQ

what causes seizures in dogs, natural treatment

by Miss Stefanie Stark PhD Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

A natural, nutritious diet that is high in protein and fats and low in starch (i.e. ketogenic) can be very helpful in combating seizure disorders in dogs. Very often, seizures are caused or exacerbated by chemicals and unnatural ingredients in commercial dog food. Switching to a higher quality, hypoallergenic dog food can help greatly.

Full Answer

What are some home remedies for dogs having seizures?

Dec 12, 2021 · There are several different things that can cause dog seizures ( 1, 2, 3 ): Genetics Metabolic disorders ( 1) Toxins ( 1) Vaccines Flea and tick preventatives Heartworm meds Herbicides and pesticides Other pharmaceutical meds Liver or kidney disease Low or high blood sugar Electrolyte problems Head injury Brain tumors ( 3)

What causes dog seizures and how should they be treated?

Sep 22, 2017 · Idiopathic epilepsy: The most common cause of seizures in dogs, these seizures occur without an identifiable underlying cause, usually due to a heritable disorder; Brain cancer; Brain injuries; Ingestion of poison; Kidney failure; Liver disease; A full workup from your vet will help determine what the cause is and how to best move forward.

How to help your dog get through a seizure?

Nov 01, 2021 · Natural Remedies For Your Dogs. #1: Gelatin. #2: Honey. #3: Omega 3 Fatty Acids. #4: Eggs. #5: Herbs. Use of Acupuncture Treatment in Treating Dog Seizures. Cons of Using Natural Remedies For Dog ...

What is the life expectancy of a dog with epilepsy?

Here are a few causes of dog seizures: Anemia; Canine diabetes; Ingesting poison; Liver disease; Physical pain or trauma; Strokes; Low or high blood sugar; Kidney disease; Electrolyte deficiencies; Head injury; Encephalitis; Brain cancer; It’s difficult to pinpoint the cause of a dog’s seizures, so if you’re not sure, seek veterinary advice.

image

What natural remedy can I give my dog for seizures?

There are several natural remedies and methods designed to prevent or stop seizures in dogs, some of the more common are:
  • Essential Fatty Acids. Pet owners and veterinarians alike recommend routinely introducing fatty acids into a dog's diet. ...
  • Dietary Changes. ...
  • Homeopathic Oils. ...
  • Acupressure. ...
  • Melatonin. ...
  • Honey.

How can I treat my dogs seizure at home?

How to Help if Your Dog is Having a Seizure
  1. Keep Yourself Calm. ...
  2. Sit Near Your Dog. ...
  3. Time Your Dog's Seizures. ...
  4. Carefully Move Your Dog to a Safer Location. ...
  5. Speak in Comforting Tones. ...
  6. Lower Your Dog's Body Temperature. ...
  7. Wrap and Comfort Your Dog. ...
  8. Let Your Dog Sleep.

What can I give my dog to stop her seizures?

Keppra (Levetiracetam) This is a newer anti-seizure medication for dogs, introduced over the last few years. But humans have used it for seizure management for a long time. It's the one your vet will most likely reach for if your dog is newly diagnosed … or if he's taken phenobarbital (read more below) for a long time.

Can coconut oil stop seizures in dogs?

If this describes your situation, coconut oil may be to help ease your dog's seizures. In another NIH study, dogs with epilepsy were fed coconut oil daily with their food, for a three month period, and the results were astonishing[*]. The dogs they studied had fewer seizures, and two of the dogs became seizure-free.Nov 26, 2020

Can honey help dogs with seizures?

After dogs come out of a seizure, a little all-natural vanilla ice cream, honey, or natural maple syrup will help to raise their sugar levels back up. Follow with a protein such as little kibble, cheese stick, a spoonful of cottage cheese, chicken, etc. to help stabilize those sugar levels.Apr 17, 2019

What triggers dog seizures?

Idiopathic epilepsy, the most common cause of seizures in the dog, is an inherited disorder, but its exact cause is unknown. Other causes include liver disease, kidney failure, brain tumors, brain trauma, or toxins. "Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common cause of seizures in the dog."

What to feed a dog that has seizures?

The 6 Best Dog Foods for Dogs With Seizures
  1. Purina Veterinary Diets Dog Food – Best Overall. Check Price on Chewy. ...
  2. Blue Buffalo Wet Dog Food – Best Value. ...
  3. Ketona Chicken Dry Dog Food – Premium Choice. ...
  4. Grandma Lucy's Artisan Dog Food – Best for Puppies. ...
  5. NUTRO Diet Adult Dry Dog Food. ...
  6. Wellness Natural Wet Canned Dog Food.
Mar 25, 2022

Does fish oil help dogs with seizures?

High fat seems to decrease the excitability of the neurons in the brain, and the addition of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (both of which are found in wild-caught-salmon oil) can decrease seizure frequency and intensity in dogs.

Can CBD help seizures in dogs?

There are many things that can cause seizures in dogs, from health problems to toxins. CBD oil has been shown to be effective in reducing seizures and related symptoms in some dogs, making it a viable treatment option for pet owners.Mar 14, 2022

What not to feed a dog that has seizures?

Some household foods known to be potential toxins that cause dog seizures include: Methylxanthines (caffeine, dark chocolate) Salt Poisoning (excessive seawater, table salt or Play-Dough ingestion) Xylitol (artificial sweetener)

What is MCT oil for dogs?

Medium Chain Triglycerides – Some vets believe that the MCTs in coconut oil aid in digestion and can help heal digestive disorders, as well as improve brain energy and mental function in older dogs. Reduces coughing and helps eliminate hairballs.Aug 4, 2017

Whats the benefits of coconut oil for dogs?

“Coconut oil can increase energy levels, improve skin and coat, improve digestion, and reduce allergic reactions,” says Smith. Dr. Katie Gryzb, a Brooklyn-based veterinarian, explains that coconut oil can potentially slow cognitive dysfunction in dogs.Apr 4, 2016

Diagnosing Seizures in Dogs

If you believe your dog is having seizures, it’s important to bring him to the vet immediately for a full workup. “This will include taking a detai...

Treatment Options For Seizures in Dogs

When it comes to treating seizures, there are medications that your vet will likely recommend, as well as certain holistic options you might be abl...

Managing Seizures in Dogs

There is no definitive answer as to which approach—Western or holistic—will help a dog suffering from seizures, since each animal’s case is unique...

Why do dogs have seizures?

Your pet could be having seizures for many different reasons, including: 1 Idiopathic epilepsy: The most common cause of seizures in dogs, these seizures occur without an identifiable underlying cause, usually due to a heritable disorder 2 Brain cancer 3 Brain injuries 4 Ingestion of poison 5 Kidney failure 6 Liver disease

What is acupuncture needle?

Acupuncture is the practice of inserting thin, sterile, stainless steel needles into specific points on the body. “Most acupuncture points are located along 14 channels, which form a network that carries blood and energy through the entire body,” Barrack explains. “It produces a physiological response. It can provide pain relief, stimulate the immune and nervous systems, increase microcirculation, decrease inflammation, and aid in treating seizures and epilepsy and other neurological diseases.”

Can Chinese herbal formulas be used with acupuncture?

Chinese herbal formulas can work alone or synergistically with acupuncture to enhance the efficacy of the needling sessions and prolong the duration of the results. “Chinese herbal formulas are incredibly safe with minimal side effects,” Barrack says. “The only side effects seen are minor and transient gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea. Additionally, sometimes a patient may seem worse temporarily before they get better.” Talk to your vet about what types of Chinese herbal formulas might be safe for your own pet for try.

Why is a ketogenic diet important for epilepsy?

“Ketogenic diets—high fat, low carb—have been thought to be helpful in patients with epilepsy, as high fat can help decrease neuron excitability, ” Barrack says.

Can western medicine help dogs with seizures?

Managing Seizures in Dogs. There is no definitive answer as to which approach—Western or holistic—will help a dog suffering from seizures, since each animal’s case is unique with different underlying causes.

Can dogs take phenobarbital?

For dogs with severe liver damage who cannot tolerate phenobarbital, you should consult with your veterinarian about alternatives. Liff says that for her patients suffering from seizures, she starts with Western medicine, since seizures can be associated with other complications such as aspiration pneumonia.

What to do if my dog has a seizure?

What to do DURING Seizures in Dogs 1 RULE NUMBER ONE IS NOT TO GET BIT!! During a seizure, a pet may close their jaws involuntarily or not recognize you as a friend, so be cautious!! 2 Protect a seizuring pet from hard furniture, falling off a balcony or down the stairs. 3 If you have a young or very thin pet who is seizuring, rub honey or Karo syrup onto their gums — if you can do so safely — to help raise their blood sugar levels. 4 Look at their inside and outside environment for any toxins or poisons they may have gotten into. 5 Think about any medicines, vaccines, or flea treatments they have received in the last 24 hours. 6 As soon as you can, take them to your veterinarian.

What causes seizures in the brain?

If the first seizure is seen at…. under 3 months of age, seizures are usually caused by low blood sugar, or congenital problems in the brain or liver. 6 months to 5 years, seizures are usually caused by epilepsy, less frequently by toxins. over 8 years, seizures are most commonly associated with brain inflammation or tumor.

Can dogs eat coconut oil?

The most widely used source of MCTs is coconut oil, which can be mixed into your dog’s food. This is the basis for Purina’s Neurocare diet. Ketogenic diets have been used for decades in epileptic humans, with a 30-40% success rate. Check out the ketopetsanctuary online.

How successful is the keto diet?

Ketogenic diets have been used for decades in epileptic humans, with a 30-40% success rate. Check out the ketopetsanctuary online. If you are not into ketogenic diets, consider trying vegetarian or fish-based diets to reduce the inflammatory precursors found in red meats.

Does hemp help with seizures?

HEMP DERIVATIVES have been proven to reduce seizure intensity in both dogs and humans. CURCUMIN to reduce inflammation in the brain, along with about a billion other benefits. SAM-e improves cognitive health and also helps orthopedic comfort. Fish oil, unfortunately, has been proven not to help.

Does curcumin help with inflammation?

CURCUMIN to reduce inflammation in the brain, along with about a billion other benefits. SAM-e improves cognitive health and also helps orthopedic comfort. Fish oil, unfortunately, has been proven not to help. Minimize stress and immune stimulation such as vaccines.

What is a seizure in dogs?

A seizure is defined as abnormal muscle activity, as a result of uncontrolled messages from the brain. There is a sudden, brief change in how your dog’s brain is working.

Can a dog have a seizure at night?

They may go through cycles of being stiff then relaxed. Some dogs may lose bowel/bladder control , and if the seizure occurs at night, this is all you may see in the morning. Localized seizures affect only certain areas of your dog’s body.

What is the best medicine for seizures in dogs?

Conventional treatment typically consists of 2 veterinary drugs, Phenobarbital and Potassium bromide, which both have numerous side effects.

What age do dogs have seizures?

For pets between the ages of 1-5, the most common diagnosis and seizure cause is epilepsy. If your pet has his first seizure over the age of 5, the most common cause is a brain tumor. There are reports that show a link between diet and seizures in dogs.

What does it mean when a dog has a high seizure threshold?

A high threshold indicates an animal’s predisposition to not experience or frequently experience seizures, while a low threshold indicates the opposite. When it comes to treating seizures with natural remedies and methods, the most success gained will be with a dog whose seizure threshold is high. In some cases, genetics will predispose a dog ...

What are the benefits of natural remedies?

A significant benefit of natural remedies is that they can be practiced in the comfort of one’s home. It is important to note that even 'natural' products can have serious side effects, however. Compare Pet Insurance & Wellness Plans. Save up to $273 per year. Compare plans.

Can red dye cause seizures in dogs?

Dye used in foods are linked to causing seizures in dogs, particularly a dye called red dye 40. Pet owners should investigate dog foods and treats before trusting them. Several other foods are proven to be dangerous and toxic to dogs as well and could be causing seizures, such as onion, garlic, bell peppers, chocolate, or grapes.

Can dogs eat onions?

Pet owners should investigate dog foods and treats before trusting them. Several other foods are proven to be dangerous and toxic to dogs as well and could be causing seizures, such as onion, garlic, bell peppers, chocolate, or grapes.

How does acupressure help dogs?

For example, the pressure point at the base of a dog’s nose, right above their upper lip can be pressed, with moderate pressure, for up to a minute.

Do natural remedies have side effects?

Due to the fact that natural remedies and methods do not require surgery or high doses of medication, there is no recovery period associated with the treatment itself. Many natural remedies do have side effects, however.

What to do if my dog has seizures?

A dog that experiences seizures, whether the episodes are frequent or infrequent, should be taken to a medical professional and undergo a series of tests. This is always the first step in helping an epileptic animal.

What happens when an animal has a seizure?

Convulsions or seizures are the result of excessive electrical activity in the cerebral cortex. During a typical attack, the animal loses consciousness (but not always), collapses, stiffens, then begins to tremble and move its legs. It’s a very upsetting and possibly traumatic moment for a pet owner.

How long does it take for a seizure to last?

If a seizure lasts more than five minutes. If the disorientation following a crisis is severe.

What is focal seizure?

This is a type of focal seizure where the animal has an episode of abnormal behavior, as opposed to seizures. It can become very aggressive and may not seem to recognize you. It may also seem to be hallucinating something and trying to catch imaginary flies.

How long does a dog's postictal phase last?

Also, there is typically a post-convulsive phase, called the postictal phase, which can last from a few minutes to several hours. Following an episode, the animal will generally be exhausted.

Is epilepsy a genetic disease?

While epilepsy is indeed a genetic disease, seizures can occur in a completely different context. Seizures can be caused by: a genetic disease. a brain tumor. a toxin in the blood. a metabolic problem. a trauma to the brain. an infection.

What causes seizures in older people?

If there is a sudden onset of seizures in old age (more than 5 years), the most plausible hypothesis of the cause of the seizures is unfortunately a brain tumor. A blood test can be performed to clarify the diagnosis. If found quickly, they are often operable, but this is very costly.

How do you know if your dog has epilepsy?

There are some signs to watch for if your dog is epileptic, that indicate the imminent onset of seizures. These epilepsy symptoms actually make up the first phase of an epilepsy attack. Here are a few: Licking its lips. Wandering around the house aimlessly. Urinating in the house.

image
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9