Getting Through a Pet Seizure
Seizures are one of the most frightening things for any pet owner. What should you do if your furry friend experiences a seizure? Our veterinarians at Collierville Animal Clinic have some advice about seizures, including when to seek emergency pet care.
Recognizing a Seizure
You may think it would be obvious that your pet is having a seizure. That’s often the case with whole-body or “grand mal” seizures, which results in convulsions from head to toe. Other times, seizures are more localized, in which case you may notice the following:
- Jerking or paddling motions with the legs
- Twitching in only one area of the body
- Excessive and uncontrolled barking
Dogs and cats are often unable to control their bodily functions while having a seizure. As a result, your pet may urinate, defecate, vomit, or drool excessively.
What to do During a Seizure
Take the following actions if your pet experiences a seizure:
- Remain calm. Your dog or cat can detect your mood, even during a seizure. Maintaining a calm demeanor will help your pet feel less frightened.
- Check the time. Knowing how long the seizure lasted will help your veterinarian determine the right course of action.
- Clear an area around your animal. This will prevent your pet from bumping into things.
- Keep your dog or cat away from stairs, wood stoves, sharp objects, or other such hazards.
- Hold your pet gently, cradling the head softly in your arms. Do not try to hold down any twitching limbs or body parts.
- Pet your animal and speak in a soft voice. Continue to do this until the seizure has fully passed.
- Clean up your pet if needed.
When to Seek Emergency Pet Care
Contact your veterinarian if this is the first time your pet has experienced a seizure. Schedule an exam and bloodwork to determine if there is an underlying cause for your pet’s seizures. Normally, we take a “wait and see” approach before administering any medication unless there is a serious health concern involved.
Seek urgent care or emergency pet care if your animal has cluster seizures. Cluster seizures involve more than one seizure in 24 hours, and in some cases, they can even be life-threatening. Likewise, if your pet has a seizure lasting more than five minutes, it’s imperative to seek help immediately.
Urgent Pet Care
When dealing with pet seizures, it’s important to have a veterinarian that you can trust. Whether you need emergency pet care, urgent care, or routine veterinary treatment, you can count on Collierville Animal Clinic. If you live in Collierville, Germantown, Piperton, or the surrounding area, save our phone number (901) 853-8519 on your phone so you’re prepared when an emergency arises.
