Yes, focal seizures are fairly common in dogs. They are usually the first type of seizure that a dog experiences, and can progress to generalized seizures if left untreated. Focal seizures can present with a variety of symptoms, including facial twitches, chewing movements, paddling of a limb, fear, attention seeking, or snapping at the air like they are trying to bite at invisible flies. Treatment for focal seizures usually involves medication, and if left untreated, can cause further complications.
What triggers focal seizures in dogs?
Focal seizures in dogs can be triggered by a variety of factors, including cancer affecting the brain, head trauma, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), liver disease, hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels), structural brain disorders, like tumors, congenital birth defects, traumatic brain injuries, infections, inflammatory diseases, degenerative brain diseases, and idiopathic epilepsy. In some cases, mutations of the Lgi2 gene are also known to cause remitting focal-onset epilepsy in dogs.
How long can a dog live with focal seizures?
Dogs with focal seizures can live a normal life, depending on the severity and frequency of their seizures. The average lifespan for a dog with focal seizures is between 7.6 and 9.2 years. However, with proper management, treatment, and care, dogs with focal seizures can live long and healthy lives.
What happens when a dog has a focal seizure?
When a dog has a focal seizure, it typically experiences abnormal motor activity such as facial twitches, chewing movements, paddling of a limb, or involuntarily jerking of a limb. It may also show behavioral signs such as fear, attention seeking, or confusion. These seizures usually last for a few seconds, and the dog typically recovers quickly afterwards. In some cases, the seizure may progress to a generalized seizure, which affects the entire brain.
How do you stop focal seizures in dogs?
Focal seizures in dogs can be managed through a combination of medications, diet, and lifestyle changes. Medications such as phenobarbital, potassium bromide, and levetiracetam can be used to decrease the frequency and severity of focal seizures. Diet and lifestyle changes, such as eliminating foods that are high in sugar and processed carbohydrates, can also help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. Additionally, providing your dog with plenty of exercise and a low-stress environment can help keep your dog’s seizures under control.