Labrador Seizures Symptoms
Symptoms of Labrador seizures differ from one another. In some cases, your dog may show only vague, delayed symptoms. Other cases may include staggers, head tremors, and increased muscle tone. Your lab may appear anxious and nervous for several minutes, or may even be unable to stand. A veterinarian can help determine the cause of your dog’s seizures and administer appropriate treatment. Below are some symptoms that you should look out for in your Labrador.
-A dog may display odd behavior, including shaking, biting, and sneezing.
Seizures may also mimic silly behaviors, such as turning their head or wagging their tail. Seizures can also be mild or severe. If your dog exhibits these symptoms, it is important to seek immediate veterinary care. If left untreated, they can lead to a more severe medical problems.
-As soon as possible:
If you notice your labrador shaking or losing control, you should take him to the vet. Your veterinarian will be able to determine whether your dog is suffering from a seizure or not. Labrador seizures usually have pre and post-seizure symptoms. Your lab may appear unsteady or start looking at the ceiling. This is called the pre-ictal phase.
-A severe seizure may last 20 minutes or more.
Seizures can cause your dog to lose control of its body and be ineffective in all bodily functions. He may even vomit or defecate during the seizure. A severe seizure may even result in death. Fortunately, the majority of seizures are brief and will eventually pass. While your pet may be scared, the best thing to do is be safe and call your vet.
During a seizure, keep your dog calm and keep a safe distance from him. Try not to touch his head or mouth. Seizures may also involve violent movements. It is best to keep your dog away from sharp objects and glass surfaces. If your dog has seizures often, you may want to keep paper towels handy. When your dog has a seizure, he might bite you uncontrollably, out of pain, or confusion.
Epilepsy is a general term for diseases of the brain.
Seizures are recurrent and can occur for different reasons. There are several different types of epilepsy, including idiopathic and structural. Idiopathic epilepsy is characterized by no clear cause, but is usually accompanied by structural brain lesions. Seizures may also be triggered by exercise or excitement. Regardless of the cause, seizures are sudden and without warning. Your dog may be affected by the same disease as a family member.
A single seizure in your Labrador can be harmless, but multiple seizures can be dangerous and even fatal. Your dog’s body temperature will increase significantly after the seizures, which is known as a cluster seizure. Hyperthermia is also a sign of a serious illness called status epilepticus. When you suspect seizures in your Labrador, seek a veterinarian right away.
During active seizure activity, your pet may experience a state known as status epilepticus.
This condition can be life-threatening, but your veterinarian can give your pet intravenous valium to stop active seizures. Oftentimes, medications like long-acting anticonvulsants will prevent additional seizures. In this case, the seizure frequency will decrease dramatically, and your veterinarian can begin treatment.
There are three types of seizures in Labradors: generalized, focal, and grand mal. Grand mal seizures affect the entire brain and cause your dog to lose consciousness for minutes or even seconds. The first type may start with isolated seizures of one limb or half of the body. In general, they’ll usually progress to a more severe seizure and eventually become generalized. Your dog will also have dilated pupils and may lose consciousness.
If your dog experiences more than one seizure within 24 hours, you should take him to your veterinarian for evaluation.
Your vet will probably recommend a course of treatment that addresses the cause of the seizure. If that doesn’t work, your vet will prescribe a medication that may help. If necessary, your veterinarian may suggest a surgical procedure. If surgery is not an option, anti-epileptic medication can help control seizures.
Some owners may attempt to handle their pets after the seizure. But this may be dangerous, as the dog may bite or chomp at his mouth. Regardless, you should never attempt to handle your dog while it is having a seizure because you could injure him. Also, remember that seizure medication isn’t very effective at controlling seizures. But if your pet suffers from any of these symptoms, seek immediate treatment to save him from further complications.
