If there's one symptom our furry friend might have that makes us feel truly awful because we don't know what to do to help, it's seizures . When they occur, the animal suffers so much and feels so uncomfortable that our first instinct is to help. Staying calm and knowing the right steps makes all the difference.
But you need to know what you can and can't do, so we're going to explain what seizures are in cats and what to do in case of a seizure, as well as their causes , how they are diagnosed and what treatments exist.
What are seizures?
Seizures are a series of repetitive and uncontrollable movements caused by a disruption in normal brain function. In other words, these movements occur when neurons receive more stimulation than they can handle, resulting in abnormal electrical discharges in the brain of the affected animal.
It should not be confused with epilepsy. Epilepsy is a chronic, self-contained disease, while seizures are a symptom of another condition; therefore, it is so important to perform a complete examination of the cat to determine the appropriate treatment.
Typical phases of a seizure
- prodromal phase: hours or days prior with possible restlessness or changes in behavior.
- Aura: seconds or minutes before the episode; the cat may seek out its human or become elusive.
- Stroke: is the visible crisis with spasms and loss of control.
- Postictal: period of recuperación with disorientation, drowsiness or hypersedation.
What are the symptoms?
Seizures can present in different ways, the most common symptoms or signs being the following:
- Loss of consciousness
- Uncontrolled movements
- Rigid body
- Salivation or drooling
- Defecation and urination
- Stretching the limbs or pedaling
- Chewing movements and clicks
- Hyperventilation or intense meowing
- Loss of balance and postictal disorientation
- Behavior changes punctual, even aggressiveness
Seizures can last from 2 to 3 minutes, during which the cat may do one of two things: hide or try to get its owner's attention. In any case, whenever you see abnormal behavior, you should go to the veterinarian immediately. If two or more seizures occur within 24 hours, they are called cluster seizures; and if the seizure is prolonged or unconsciousness lasts more than five minutes, it is called status epilepticus , which is a life-threatening emergency.
What are the causes?
Seizures are a clinical sign and can be caused by multiple problems :
- Epilepsy: idiopathic, secondary to known disease or cryptogenic.
- Brain injuries: trauma, tumors, malformations or vascular sequelae.
- Infections and inflammations of the nervous system: encephalitis, meningitis.
- Metabolic disorders extracerebral: liver or kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, electrolyte disturbances.
- Hypoglycemia in kittens, small breeds or diabetics.
- Poison: drugs not indicated for cats, plants or household toxins.
- nutritional deficits such as vitamin B1 in specific cases.
What to do?
If your cat has a seizure, it's very important to stay calm . We know it's easier said than done, but it's necessary to prevent them from becoming more stressed. Also, remove any objects that could hurt them , and don't wrap them up in anything, as this could cause further harm.
Furthermore, do not give him food or water during a crisis . Being unconscious, he could choke. And, above all, never self-medicate him, as human medications are dangerous for him.
Always consult with a veterinarian before treating it.
As additional guidelines: avoid putting your hand in its mouth or holding it tightly, dim the lights and reduce noise, and let the episode run its course while protecting it from any bumps or knocks. If your veterinarian has prescribed emergency medication (for example, rectal diazepam), administer it only as instructed. After the seizure, withhold food and water for a few minutes if incoordination persists. In kittens, very young kittens, or diabetic kittens, the veterinarian may recommend applying a small amount of honey to their gums while they are conscious to prevent hypoglycemia.
If you need to move your pet, wait until the crisis is over. For small animals, you can use a towel only for transport, avoiding putting pressure on them; for large animals, use a rigid surface and protect their head from bumps.
Discovery
The veterinarian will gather a detailed history (age, diet, environment, toxins, onset of episodes). Video recording the seizure provides information about its type and duration . After the general examination, the following may be performed:
- Blood and urine analysis for metabolic or toxic causes.
- imaging tests: X-rays, CT scan or MRI to rule out tumors or injuries.
- Cerebrospinal fluid if infections or inflammation are suspected.
Treatment
Management aims to eliminate or reduce the frequency and intensity of crises. If an identifiable cause exists, it is treated specifically: infections with antibiotics when appropriate, tumors with surgery or cancer therapies, and metabolic disorders by correcting the underlying problem.
In primary epilepsy or when no cause is identified, long-acting anticonvulsants , such as phenobarbital, are indicated, with dosage adjustments and regular monitoring . In emergencies, the veterinarian may administer benzodiazepines to stop the seizure. It is crucial to complement this treatment with calm routines , a balanced diet, and avoiding sudden shocks.
Prevention and home care
- Evita toxic and keeps drugs under lock and key.
- Keep up to date check-ups, vaccinations and specific antiparasitics for cats.
- Offer eating complete and fresh water, and control weight.
- Guarantees a quiet space with hiding places and dim light.
- Minimize stress and long trips; respect schedules and routines.
- After an episode, it provides an atmosphere silent and observe its evolution.
Understanding what a seizure is, its possible causes, and how to react safely will allow you to better protect your cat. If you have any doubts or if seizures recur, an immediate veterinary consultation is the safest way to ensure an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
