How to Treat Focal Seizures in Dogs

Last Updated: February 18, 2023 References

Focal seizures occur when your dog experiences a surge of electrical activity in one part of the brain. They are different than generalized seizures because focal seizures only affect part of the brain, and therefore, part of the body. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t seem scary! Don’t worry, most seizures can be successfully treated. Work with your vet to figure out a treatment plan that might include medications, natural remedies, or a combination of both. Finally, you can learn how to care for your dog during and after seizures to help keep them safe and healthy.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Using Medical Care to Treat Seizures

1
Allow your vet to perform an exam and run tests on your dog. Take your dog to the vet so that you can try to figure out the underlying causes of the seizures. In order to make the best diagnosis and treatment plan, your vet will perform a basic physical exam. ^{[1]
X
Research source}
- Additionally, your vet might want to get some lab work to assess your dog’s kidney and liver functions. Common tests include blood and urine analysis. These might help determine what type of medication your vet prescribes.
- Talk to your vet about the need for medication. Although severe seizures may require medication, focal seizures that are mild and have a minimal physical impact on your dog may not require ongoing medication.
- Focal seizures are treated the same as any other type of seizure.
2
Discuss using Phenobarbital. Talk to your vet about this common anti-seizure medication, which is considered very effective. If your vet prescribes Phenobarbital, ask about the correct dosage for your dog.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- Typically, you’ll give this medication to your dog every 12 hours in the form of a pill.
- Ask your vet about potential side effects, such as a lack of energy in your dog, or trouble with balance.
- Talk to your vet about possible long-term effects, such as liver damage.
Advertisement
3
Use potassium bromide in addition to Phenobarbital. It can take a while for this medication to have its desired effect, so it is mostly used as a supplement to others. If your dog isn’t benefiting from Phenobarbital alone, ask your vet about adding potassium bromide. It might prove effective after several weeks.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- Follow the dosage instructions from your vet. If your dog doesn’t do well taking pills, ask your vet for suggestions
- Discuss any possible side-effects, such as weight gain, excessive urination, and restlessness. There is potential for liver damage with long-term use, but that is very rare.^{[4]
  X
  Research source}
4
Try rectal diazepam for cluster seizures. Sometimes focal seizures can occur in “clusters,” which means your dog has 2 or more in a 24-hour period. Injecting diazepam into your dog’s rectum can stop the frequency and severity of the seizures. Ask the vet to show you how to inject the medication. Take a video on your phone so that you can view the demonstration later if you need to.^{[5]
X
Research source}
- You can administer this medication up to 3 times in 24 hours. If your dog is still seizing after 3 doses, take them to the emergency vet.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Trying Natural Remedies

1
Consider acupuncture to prevent seizures. While natural remedies aren’t backed by scientific research, many people claim that their dogs have experienced relief by using certain methods. Acupuncture is the process of inserting thin, long needles into certain pressure points, which might relieve pain and stop the frequency of seizures. Talk to your vet before trying acupuncture for your dog.^{[6]
X
Research source}
- Keep in mind that acupuncture is usually used in addition to medication, not in place of it.
- Ask your vet, family, and friends for recommendations for professional acupuncturists. You might also want to check out online reviews.
- Only allow a professional with experience treating dogs to work on your pet.
2
Talk to your vet about Chinese herbal formulas. Some people believe that Chinese herbal medication can help reduce seizures in dogs. Ask your vet if herbal remedies might help your pet.^{[7]
X
Research source}
- Remember that herbal formulas may not be proven effective. Don't delay treating your dog with medication.
- Gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea, is a common side-effect.
- It may seem as though your dog gets worse before better. That is common.
- Herbs might be used to prolong the effects of acupuncture sessions.
3
Discuss changing your dog’s diet. Since your dog’s food has a big impact on their overall health, it makes sense that changing their diet might help control the seizures. Some vets recommend a high-fat, low-carb diet, or a low salt diet, which may reduce seizures. Talk to your vet before changing your dog’s food.^{[8]
X
Research source}
- Ask your vet for a dog food that is right for your pet. You can also ask about making your own dog food, if you want to try that.
- Ask your vet about giving your dog fish oil supplements, which might help prevent seizures. It's usually safe to give your dog "people" fish oil, but there are also special pills for dogs. Ask your vet which is right for your dog, and follow the vet's dosage instructions, rather than those on the bottle.^{[9]
  X
  Trustworthy Source
  American Kennel Club
  The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.
  Go to source}

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Providing Continuous Care

1
Notice warning signs of a seizure. Although it will probably always feel scary when your dog has a focal seizure, you’ll likely handle it better once you recognize some signs. Before a seizure, dogs typically exhibit behavioral changes, such as seeming anxious or unfocused. During focal seizures, your dog might also snap its mouth and appear to be biting at flies.^{[10]
X
Research source}
- If you think a seizure is coming, move sharp objects, other dogs, and children away from your dog. This reduces the likelihood of the dog accidentally getting hurt.
- You can allow your dog to eat and drink small amounts, but don't let them have an excessive amount of anything.
2
Remain calm during and after seizures. While its normal to feel anxious during a seizure, try to stay calm for your dog. Speak to them in a steady, gentle voice. Give your dog space, but stay nearby. You’ll be a soothing presence for them.
3
Help relax your dog after a seizure with soothing substances. Your dog might feel pretty shaky after a seizure, and that's normal. You can give them a small amount of rescue remedy to help calm them. Add a small dish of vanilla ice cream to help level out the blood sugar.
- Make sure to monitor your dog for additional warning signs of a seizure. They can sometimes come again rapidly.
- You can also make your dog more comfortable by helping them to cool down. Consider a cool, damp cloth or placing a gentle fan in front of them.
4
Take your dog for regular checkups. If your dog is prone to seizures, it’s even more important than usual to provide consistent medical care. Your vet might also want to regularly do lab work on your dog to make sure any medications are working properly. Ask your vet how frequently you should bring your dog in.

Warnings

Both phenobarbital and potassium bromide can cause your dog to have decreased coordination and other symptoms.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1