Seizures (epilepsy)
CRITICAL
Seizures (epilepsy)
Neurological
A seizure lasting over 5 minutes OR more than 3 seizures in 24h is an emergency (status epilepticus).
Symptoms to watch for
- ▸ Whole body rigid, or muscle groups twitching
- ▸ Unconscious, unresponsive
- ▸ Drooling, loss of bladder and bowel control
- ▸ Eyes rolled back, pupils dilated
- ▸ Afterwards — dazed and disoriented for 15-30 minutes
DO THIS NOW (in order)
- 1 TIME the seizure (use a clock) — the vet needs this
- 2 Clear the area: move hard objects away, open doors so nothing is hit
- 3 Turn bright lights off and cut the noise (stimulation prolongs the seizure)
- 4 Watch from a distance — DO NOT hold or restrain your pet
- 5 Film the seizure if you can (it helps the vet find the cause)
NEVER DO THIS
- ✕ NEVER PUT YOUR HAND OR AN OBJECT IN THE MOUTH — a dangerous myth; pets cannot swallow their tongue
- ✕ DO NOT hold your pet tightly — you may injure them and get bitten
- ✕ DO NOT offer food or water right after — a dazed pet chokes easily
- ✕ DO NOT move your pet while the seizure is happening
Getting there safely
Wait until the seizure ends and your pet is alert again (15-30 minutes). Put them in a towel-lined carrier, lying on their side. See the vet within 1-2h afterwards to find the cause.
While you wait for the vet
- ▸ Count the seizures + how long each one lasts
- ▸ Check whether your pet recovers — back to normal within 30 minutes?
- ▸ Keep your pet warm and quiet afterwards
- ▸ DO NOT give any medicine (including an old epilepsy prescription your pet is on)
RED FLAG — get emergency care right away if you see:
- A seizure lasting more than 5 minutes without stopping
- Your pet does not wake up between seizures
- 3 or more seizures in 24h
- Seizures with a high fever
- Seizures in a pet under 6 months or over 7 years old (rarer, more serious causes)
This guide does NOT replace a vet's diagnosis. Always contact the clinic, even if your pet seems fine.