Seizures in Pets: When to Call an Emergency Vet

Watching your pet experience a seizure is frightening. It’s sudden. It’s intense. And it often leaves owners unsure of what to do. But acting fast and staying calm can make all the difference. Whether you’ve just witnessed a seizure or want to be prepared, this guide will help you understand what’s happening, what to watch for, and when to call a 24-hour emergency vet in Perth.

What Is a Seizure in Pets?

A seizure is caused by abnormal electrical activity in your pet’s brain. This misfiring of signals leads to involuntary muscle movements, twitching, or a loss of consciousness. In dogs and cats, seizures can look dramatic and be confusing. One moment, your pet is fine. Next, they’re on the ground shaking.

Seizures can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. Some pets may only experience one seizure in their lifetime. Others may have multiple episodes over time.

What Causes Seizures?

There are several possible causes for seizures in pets. Some are serious and require long-term management. Others are treatable once the underlying issue is addressed.

Here are the most common causes:

• Idiopathic epilepsy: This is a genetic condition and the most common cause in dogs. There’s no identifiable reason for the seizures, but they tend to start between six months and six years of age.

• Toxins: Pets are curious by nature. They might ingest chocolate, caffeine, certain plants, human medications, or even cleaning products. All of these can trigger seizures.

• Liver or kidney disease: If these organs stop filtering toxins effectively, it can lead to a buildup in the bloodstream that affects the brain.

• Head injury or trauma: Falls, car accidents, or blunt force trauma can trigger seizures.

• Infectious diseases: Conditions like distemper or meningitis can affect the brain and cause seizures.

• Tumours: Older pets, especially dogs, may develop brain tumours that lead to seizures.

• Low blood sugar: Especially in small breeds and young puppies, low glucose levels can disrupt brain function.

It’s important to work with your vet to identify the cause. Not all seizures are life-threatening, but they are always worth investigating.

Signs Your Pet Is Having a Seizure

Seizures don’t always look like dramatic convulsions. Some are subtle and easy to miss.

Look for these signs:

• Collapsing suddenly

• Stiffening or paddling of limbs

• Jerking movements

• Unresponsiveness

• Drooling or foaming at the mouth

• Chewing or chomping motions

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

• Temporary confusion or disorientation afterwards

Some pets exhibit strange behaviour before a seizure. They may seem restless, hide, pace, or appear dazed. This is known as the “pre-ictal” phase. After the seizure, your pet may be uncoordinated, anxious, or temporarily blind. This recovery phase can last several minutes to hours.

What to Do During a Seizure

If your pet is having a seizure, the most important thing you can do is stay calm. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Keep your pet safe
   Clear the area of furniture, sharp objects, or anything that they could hurt themselves on.

2. Do not touch their mouth
   Your pet is not aware of what’s happening and could bite by accident. They will not swallow their tongue.

3. Do not try to restrain them
   Let the seizure run its course. Trying to hold them still can cause injury.

4. Time the seizure
   Use your phone or a watch. If it lasts longer than five minutes, it’s considered an emergency.

5. Keep things quiet
   Turn off loud music or television. Dim the lights if possible.

6. Talk gently
   Use a calm, soothing voice. Your pet may be frightened during and after the episode.

If it’s their first seizure or if anything feels unusual, contact a vet as soon as possible.

When to Call an Emergency Vet in Perth

Not all seizures require a trip to an emergency vet, but some situations do. Call a 24/7 vet immediately if:

• The seizure lasts longer than five minutes

• Your pet has multiple seizures close together

• They do not recover within a few minutes after the seizure ends

• They have difficulty breathing or seem weak and unresponsive

• It’s the first time they’ve ever had a seizure

There are 24 hour vet clinics in Perth that can help you at any time. Make sure you know the location of the nearest emergency vet and keep their number handy.

After the Seizure: What to Expect

Once the seizure ends, your pet may act strangely. They might:

• Appear dazed or confused

• Unable to stand or walk properly

• Seem temporarily blind

• Pace or pant excessively

This post-seizure phase, called the “post-ictal” period, is normal. It may last a few minutes or up to a couple of hours.

During this time:

• Offer water

• Keep your pet in a quiet, dimly lit space

• Avoid loud noises or sudden movements

• Stay with them until they are fully recovered

Document everything you saw: how long the seizure lasted, what happened before and after, and any unusual behaviour. This will be helpful for your vet.

Can Seizures Be Prevented?

In some cases, yes. If the seizure was caused by a specific toxin or low blood sugar, treating the cause may prevent future episodes. For pets with epilepsy or recurring seizures, your vet may prescribe daily medication to reduce the frequency and intensity.

Here are steps you can take to help prevent seizures:

• Keep your pet away from known toxins

• Monitor their environment closely, especially outdoors

• Feed them on a regular schedule to avoid low blood sugar

• Keep stress levels low and provide a stable routine

• Follow your vet’s instructions and medication schedule

Always book regular check-ups to stay ahead of potential health issues.

Final Thoughts

Seizures in pets are serious, but they don’t always mean the worst. Many pets live happy lives with proper treatment and monitoring. The key is to act quickly, stay calm, and seek professional care when needed.

If you live in Perth and your pet has a seizure, don’t wait. Contact us, we are open 24/7. Knowing where to go and what to do can save your pet’s life.