Convulsions & Fainting in Pets
Pets fainting and convulsing can be frightening, and for good reason. These occurrences indicate serious, potentially life-threatening complications. Our emergency vet team, conveniently located in Apex, NC, is here to help you determine when it’s time to bring your pet in.
If your pet experiences uncontrolled movements, suddenly collapses or loses consciousness, treat this as a medical emergency and contact your emergency veterinarian immediately. You can reach us at 919-694-8362, 24/7/365.
Understanding Convulsions and Fainting in Pets
It is understandably distressing to see your pet convulse or faint. Knowing how to spot warning signs can give you some measure of control over the situation.
Convulsions are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that can cause uncontrolled shaking. They’re commonly associated with seizures and can be caused by many underlying conditions, such as epilepsy, toxin ingestion or metabolic disorders. Possible signs of convulsions in pets include: |
Fainting occurs when an insufficient amount of oxygenated blood reaches the brain. Fainting episodes usually involve collapse or limpness rather than prolonged convulsions. This may indicate an underlying heart condition or other medical issue. Either way, it’s worth getting checked out immediately. Fainting differs from seizures in: |
Why These Episodes Are Cause for Concern
Beyond the simple fact that fainting or convulsions can indicate an underlying health issue, your pet may injure themselves during the episode. This can quickly become a huge problem, especially if incidents recur regularly. Getting treatment as soon as possible to prevent further episodes is best for your pet and your peace of mind.
If episodes are ongoing, keep a record of when they occur and any symptoms you witness. This will help your emergency veterinarian diagnose your pet more quickly and determine appropriate treatment.
Common Causes of Fainting & Convulsions in Pets
Neurological Causes
- Epilepsy: Indicated by recurring convulsive episodes in young to middle-aged pets.
- Brain tumors or trauma: Seizures accompanied by personality changes, vision issues or excessive, persistent “circling.”
Metabolic Causes
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Common in toy breeds, puppies or diabetic pets.
- Liver disease or toxin-induced liver failure: Identified with excessive drooling or vomiting before or after a seizure.
- Electrolyte imbalances: Calcium or potassium imbalances can lead to weakness, trembling and fainting or convulsions.
Cardiac Causes
- Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats): Indicated by fainting or a fast heartbeat at rest.
- Heart disease: Either genetic or age-related, identified by coughing, exercise intolerance and fainting.
Respiratory Causes
- Obstructed airway or collapsing trachea: Indicated by fainting after coughing fits.
Toxicity-Related Causes
- Ingesting common toxins: Caused by ingesting chocolate, xylitol, rat poisons or certain plants. May cause vomiting, drooling, tremors or seizures.
Temperature-Related Causes
- Heatstroke: Identified by collapse during hot weather, heavy panting, weakness and abnormal gum color.
Breed & Age Risk Factors
Although age increases risk factors for many complications, some breeds have higher risks of fainting and convulsions in general. It’s important to be familiar with these potential causes for concern so you’re best prepared to help your pet.
Dog Breeds More Prone to Epilepsy
- Border collies
- Cocker spaniels
- Beagles
- Belgian tervurens
- Bernese mountain dogs
Dog Breeds More Prone to Cardiac-Related Fainting
- Boxers
- Doberman pinschers
- Cavalier King Charles spaniels
Age-Related Risk Factors for Dogs or Cats
- Puppies or kittens: hypoglycemia, congenital heart disease
- Adults: epilepsy
- Seniors: brain tumors, organ dysfunction, heart disease
What to Do During a Convulsion or Fainting Episode
If your pet is experiencing a convulsion or fainting episode, treat it as a medical emergency. Call us at 919-694-8362.
During a Convulsion
- Do not hold your pet
- Keep your hands away from the pet’s mouth
- Move any nearby objects out of the way
- Reduce noise and dim lights
- Time the seizure’s length
- Record video of the event, if possible
During a Fainting Episode
- Check for normal breathing
- Move your pet to safety
- Gently lay your pet on their chest
- Monitor temperature, creating cool airflow if needed
- Avoid giving food or water until your pet is fully alert
After the Event
- Contact your emergency vet immediately
- Keep your pet calm
- Record how long full recovery took
- Note any potential triggers, especially for recurring events
Prevention
The best way to ensure your pet’s well-being is to prevent fainting or convulsions from occurring in the first place. Reducing contact with known triggers and spotting early warning signs can keep your pet happy and well for the long term. Keep a record of any events that occur to make tracking these signs easier for you and your veterinarian.
There are some steps you can take to ease their discomfort:
- Remove food for a few hours to allow for fasting. Do not remove access to water.
- Check for dietary changes or access to toxins or foreign objects.
- Keep careful watch over your pet’s symptoms and their duration. Your vet will also appreciate any detail on the vomit or stool’s appearance.
- Do not give your pet medication made for human consumption.
When to Call Peak Paws
Convulsive episodes lasting longer than 3 to 5 minutes or multiple episodes in 24 hours should be treated as a medical emergency. Additionally, if fainting or convulsive episodes worsen or appear with symptoms like bright red gums, disorientation or vomiting, reach out to Peak Paws immediately.
Early intervention can prevent life-threatening emergencies before they start. Our caring, compassionate team is here to help you determine what’s triggering your pet’s episodes. Reach out at 919-694-8362. We’re available 24/7/365.