Dogs have seizures primarily because of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. The causes for these seizures can vary widely and include:
- Idiopathic epilepsy: a genetic disorder and the most common cause, especially in young to middle-aged dogs, where no specific cause is identified.
- Brain infections or inflammation, such as meningitis or encephalitis.
- Metabolic imbalances like low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or low calcium (hypocalcemia).
- Exposure to toxins such as pesticides, chocolate, xylitol, or household chemicals.
- Brain tumors or lesions that disrupt normal brain function.
- Head trauma or injury.
- Liver or kidney disease that leads to toxin buildup affecting the brain.
- Genetic predispositions in certain breeds such as Beagles, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and others.
Seizures may present as uncontrolled shaking, twitching, loss of consciousness, or abnormal movements confined to part of the body. The specific cause can range from inherited conditions to external factors like poisoning or trauma, and the treatment depends on identifying and managing the underlying cause.
