Understanding Seizures in Pets: What to Do and How to Help

Watching your pet have a seizure is terrifying—especially if it happens for the first time. Whether it’s a full-body convulsion or a moment of strange behavior, seizures can look dramatically different depending on the cause. As overwhelming as it is in the moment, knowing how to respond and what steps to take next can make a real difference in your pet’s safety and long-term health.

This guide will help you understand what seizures are, recognize the signs, take appropriate action, and work with your veterinarian to manage the condition going forward.

 Concerned about a seizure episode? Contact Cobb & Co. Veterinary Clinic for expert care.

What Is a Seizure?

Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Depending on the part of the brain affected, your pet may experience sudden muscle twitching, full-body convulsions, or even temporary behavioral changes.

The Three Phases of a Seizure:

  • Pre-ictal (Aura) – Anxiety, drooling, whining, restlessness, or hiding before the seizure begins.
  • Ictal Phase – The seizure itself: loss of consciousness, muscle spasms, paddling, or collapse.
  • Post-ictal – The recovery stage. Pets may appear dazed, wobbly, temporarily blind, or unusually tired.

 Read more on seizure progression and symptoms from Cornell University.

What Causes Seizures in Dogs and Cats?

Seizures can happen for many reasons, and the cause often depends on your pet’s age, breed, and health history.

Common Causes:

  • Idiopathic Epilepsy – A genetic condition most common in young to middle-aged dogs. Often managed with long-term medication.
     Learn more about canine epilepsy.
  • Toxic Ingestions – Chocolate, xylitol, rodent poison, certain plants, or human medications can trigger seizures.
  • Head Trauma – Accidents or injuries that affect the brain.
  • Brain Tumors – More common in older pets.
  • Metabolic Disorders – Low blood sugar, liver disease, or kidney failure can all interfere with brain function.
     Explore more on brain-related causes.

What To Do During a Seizure

Your immediate goal is to protect your pet from harm and stay calm. Most seizures resolve within 1–2 minutes.

DO:

  • Move nearby objects or furniture out of the way.
  • Place something soft under their head.
  • Reduce noise and dim the lights.
  • Time the seizure—if it lasts longer than 5 minutes, it’s an emergency.

DON’T:

  • Do not restrain your pet.
  • Never put your hands or any object in their mouth—they will not swallow their tongue.
  • Avoid loud noises or sudden touches that could startle them further.

 How to recognize a pet emergency.

What To Expect After a Seizure

The post-seizure phase (post-ictal period) can be disorienting for your pet. They may:

  • Pace, stumble, or appear “out of it”
  • Show temporary blindness or confusion
  • Be exhausted or unusually clingy

What You Should Do:

  • Offer water, but wait on food until they’ve fully recovered.
  • Keep them in a quiet, safe area.
  • Start a seizure journal to track frequency, triggers, and symptoms.

Log these details:

  • Date and time
  • Duration
  • What they were doing beforehand
  • How they behaved after

This information is invaluable for your veterinarian.

When Is a Seizure an Emergency?

Contact a vet immediately if:

  • The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
  • Your pet has more than one seizure in 24 hours.
  • Your pet doesn’t fully recover within 30 minutes.
  • There are signs of toxin ingestion, trauma, or extreme heat exposure.

Diagnosing Seizure Causes

Your vet will likely recommend:

  • Bloodwork & Urinalysis – Checks for liver/kidney issues or low blood sugar
  • Neurological Evaluation – Looks for behavioral or motor deficits
  • Imaging (MRI or CT Scan) – Useful for detecting tumors or lesions
  • Spinal Tap – May help identify inflammation or infection

Managing and Treating Seizures

Medication Options:

  • Phenobarbital, Keppra (Levetiracetam), or Potassium Bromide
  • Your vet may adjust doses based on blood levels and seizure frequency

Additional Support:

  • Prescription diets or omega-3 supplements for brain health
  • Surgery if imaging reveals a structural cause
  • Rehabilitation or physical therapy for pets recovering from neurologic damage
     Learn about rehab for seizure-prone pets.

How to Prevent Future Seizures

While not all seizures are preventable, you can reduce their frequency or severity by:

  • Avoiding exposure to known toxins
  • Keeping a consistent routine for meals, medications, and sleep
  • Minimizing stress or overstimulation
  • Sticking to regular checkups to adjust meds or catch underlying issues early
    Schedule wellness care.

You’re Not Alone

Seizures are scary—but with the right care plan, many pets go on to live full, happy lives. Early detection, routine monitoring, and consistent treatment make all the difference.

If your pet has had a seizure or is showing any unusual symptoms, we’re here to help.
 Reach out to Cobb & Co. Veterinary Clinic today.