Seizures in dogs and cats are a common symptom of neurological disease. They can also be caused by non-neurological conditions that affect the brain. However, status epilepticus is a serious and life-threatening form of seizure.
What is Status Epilepticus in the Dog and Cat
Status epilepticus is defined as a continual or persistent state of seizure.
Seizures in dogs and cats, in most instances, only last a short period of time. However, less commonly, the seizure does not stop.
If your dog or cat has a seizure that lasts for longer than 5 minutes without stopping, this is status epilepticus. In addition, if the seizure appears to begin to stop but starts again before your pet has a chance to recover fully between seizures, it is a form of status epilepticus.
What Should a Pet Owner Do if Their Dog or Cat Is in Status Epilepticus
If your dog or cat is in status epilepticus, your pet needs emergency veterinary care. Take your pet to the nearest veterinary facility immediately.
A continuous state of seizure can cause profound changes within your dog or cat's body that can become life-threatening in a short period of time. Within an hour, brain cells will begin to die and irreparable brain damage may occur.
What Causes Status Epilepticus Seizures in Dogs and Cats
Status epilepticus can have lots of causes. These causes include:
- poor seizure control for previously existing seizures
- rapid withdrawal of anticonvulsant medications
- progression of pre-existing brain disease
- trauma
- cancer
- brain infections
- poisoning
- heat stroke
- kidney disease
- liver disease
- low blood sugar levels
- low blood calcium levels
How Are Status Epilepticus Seizures Treated in the Canine and Feline
Your veterinarian will first try to halt the seizure using rapidly effective anticonvulsants such as diazepam, lorazepam or midazolam. If these are not effective, barbiturates or inhalation anesthesia may be used to help stop the seizure activity.
Your veterinarian will also start your dog or cat on an anticonvulsant medication such as phenobarbital to help prevent further seizures.
If your dog or cat's body temperature is high, measures may be taken to lower it. Your pet may also need oxygen therapy and other supportive medical treatments.
If an underlying disease can be located, treating that disease is important.
Can Status Epilepticus Seizures in Dogs and Cats Be Prevented
These types of seizures cannot always be prevented. However, if your dog or cat is receiving anticonvulsant medications, these medications should never be stopped abruptly.