Common Dog Seizure Symptoms

October 23, 2008 by Richard Cross

If your dog has epilepsy (or any other condition that causes seizures) then you need to know the dog seizure symptoms so you can be prepared. It’s important to know the four stages of seizures so you can identify when there is something wrong.

The Prodome
This stage can happen days before the actual seizure, and is usually characterized by the dog behaving strangely or differently to usual. Your dog might also undergo a change in mood.

The Aura
This stage is that start of the actual seizure. There are many symptoms of the aura, such as:

Whining
Restlessness
Hiding
Salivation

The bottom line is to watch out for any behaviour that seems unusual. You’ll know your dog better than anyone else so you’ll be able to tell when there is something wrong.

The Ictus
This is the actual seizure and has the most noticeable dog seizure symptoms by far. This is the violent stage of the seizure where the dog will be extremely physically active for anywhere between one and a few minutes. Seizures vary in severity, and may or may not include the following symptoms

Drooling
Emptying of the bowels
Limb thrashing
Loss of consciousness
Voaclizing

The Ictus is the most easily recognisable stage and includes behaviour we would usually consider as a seizure.

Post Ictus Stage
After the seizure your dog will be extremely disturbed, and may walk around aimlessly or even appear to lose its site or hearing. Your dog may exhibit the following symptoms on the Post Ictal Stage:

Pacing
Excessive drinking
Excessive Eating
Salivation

You should always contact your local vet if your dog shows the signs of having seizure. He or she will be able to advise you on the best course of action.

What causes a seizure?

A seizure is caused by a disruption in the normal brain circuitry. It can be caused by many different things and is one of the most common neurological problems in dogs. These include, but are not limited to: