Emergency Guide: What to Do During a Cat Seizure
Section 1: Types of Feline Seizures
1. Reactive disorders stemming from metabolic or toxic conditions: These include metabolic diseases such as hepatic encephalopathy, uremia, hypoglycemia, hyperthyroidism, and hyperparathyroidism; as well as toxic diseases like lead poisoning, organophosphate poisoning, ethylene glycol poisoning, and pyrethroid/insecticide poisoning.
2. Intracranial diseases: Symptoms of seizures can be caused by conditions such as tumors, inflammation or infections, trauma, congenital or degenerative diseases, or vascular disorders. Symptomatic seizures are a common type in cats, and intracranial diseases are among the most frequent causes of seizures in this species.
3. Idiopathic seizures: These occur due to potential symptomatic causes, such as previous head trauma or infection, but the exact cause remains unclear.
4. Idiopathic epilepsy: This type has not yet been associated with a definitive cause. It is characterized by seizures that typically begin between the ages of 1 to 4 years.
Section 2: Symptoms of Feline Seizures
Before a seizure, cats may exhibit unusual signs of depression or excitement. During a seizure, they may lose consciousness, have convulsions, and emit cries as they fall into a coma. Their pupils may dilate, eyes may roll back, and limbs may spread out. There may also be evidence of tongue biting, leading to bleeding. After a seizure, cats may regain consciousness but may be extremely agitated for a short period, followed by exhaustion and a return to sleep. Their appetite may also be affected.
Section 3: Treatment for Feline Seizures
The primary treatment for feline seizures is medication. However, it is crucial to first identify the underlying cause of the seizures and treat any potential diseases that may be triggering them. Phenobarbital is a common anticonvulsant used to treat seizures in cats. Sedatives like diazepam or gabapentin can be effective in managing seizures and are often used as adjunctive therapies. The goal of anticonvulsant therapy is to minimize seizure frequency, but it is also important to be cautious of potential side effects from excessive medication.
Seizures can seem like a fleeting issue, and it's easy for owners to overlook them. However, epilepsy is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. It's essential for pet owners to be vigilant about their cat's health. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to consult with an online veterinary professional.
