Seizures in Chihuahuas can be a distressing experience for both you and your pet. If your Chihuahua dog has seizures, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments is crucial. Seizure disorder in dogs can occur due to various reasons, including genetics, medical conditions, or external factors. In this guide, we’ll explore what causes seizures in dogs, how to manage dog seizures in Chihuahuas, and ways to help your furry companion.
What Causes Seizures in Chihuahuas?
If you’re asking, “Why does my dog have seizures?” or “Why do Chihuahuas get seizures?,” there are several possible answers. What causes seizures in puppies can differ from what causes canine seizures in older dogs. Some common causes of canine seizures include:
1. Genetic Epilepsy
Chihuahuas are known to be prone to seizure disorders in dogs due to hereditary epilepsy. If your Chihuahua is having a seizure, it could be due to a genetic predisposition.
2. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
Chihuahuas have small bodies and high metabolisms, making them susceptible to blood sugar drops. Dog seizures in Chihuahuas can occur if their glucose levels drop too low. Due to this fact, we need to feed Chis more often to keep their sugar level within normal ranges. Our recommendation is to divide your dog’s meals into smaller ones so you can
3. Toxins and Poisoning
One of the most common causes of canine seizures is exposure to toxic substances like chocolate, xylitol, rat poison, or household chemicals. In this case, inhaling or licking some of these substances can end up fatal.
4. Liver Disease or Liver Shunts
Liver issues, such as portosystemic shunts, can lead to a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream, triggering Chihuahua dog seizures.
5. Head Trauma
Due to their small size, Chihuahuas are more vulnerable to head injuries. If your Chihuahua has a seizure after a fall or accident, trauma could be the cause.
6. Brain Tumors or Infections
Neurological conditions like tumors, encephalitis, or meningitis may trigger chihuahua seizures in older dogs.
7. Electrolyte Imbalances or Nutritional Deficiencies
A lack of essential nutrients, such as calcium or magnesium, can contribute to seizures in Chihuahuas dogs.
8. Heart Disease
Poor circulation and oxygen deprivation may explain “why do Chihuahuas have seizures” in some cases.
Recognizing Seizures in Chihuahuas Symptoms
If your Chihuahua is having a seizure, it’s important to recognize the signs. Canine seizure symptoms vary but often include:
- Uncontrollable shaking or convulsions
- Sudden stiffness in the body
- Foaming at the mouth or excessive drooling
- Loss of consciousness
- Paddling of legs as if “running”
- Temporary blindness or confusion after a seizure
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
These symptoms may appear in different intensities depending on the severity of the seizure.
What to Do If Your Chihuahua is Having a Seizure
When a Chihuahua is having a seizure, stay calm and follow these steps:
- Ensure Safety – Move your dog away from hazards such as stairs or sharp furniture.
- Do Not Hold or Restrain Them – Let the seizure pass naturally to avoid accidental injuries.
- Protect Their Head – Place a soft towel under their head to prevent trauma.
- Time the Seizure – If it lasts longer than 5 minutes, seek emergency veterinary care.
- Keep Hands Away from the Mouth – Dogs cannot swallow their tongues, but they may bite involuntarily.
- Minimize External Stimulation – Turn off bright lights and reduce noise to help them recover faster.
Post-Seizure Care: What to Do After Seizures in Chihuahuas
After a dog has seizures, they may be confused or disoriented. Here’s how to help them recover:
- Comfort and Reassure Them – Speak in a calm, soothing voice. Give your dog support and make him/her feel relaxed. Place your dog in their dog bed because his/he place for rest
- Provide Fresh Water – Hydration is important after a seizure.
- Let Them Rest – Allow them to relax in a quiet, comfortable space.
- Record the Incident – Note the time, duration, and symptoms for your vet.
How to Prevent and Treat Seizures in Chihuahuas
If you’re wondering, “Can Chihuahuas have seizures?” or “Are Chihuahuas prone to seizures?” the answer is yes, but proper care can reduce the risks. Your veterinarian may recommend the following treatments:
Medication
When it comes to dog-safe medications for seizures, veterinarians commonly prescribe antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) to help manage and reduce seizure activity. Below are some of the most popular and widely used medications for seizure disorders in dogs:
1. Phenobarbital
- One of the most commonly prescribed drugs for seizure disorder in dogs.
- Works by depressing nervous system activity to reduce seizure frequency.
- Requires regular blood tests to monitor liver function.
- Side effects: Increased thirst, hunger, drowsiness, liver damage (with long-term use).
2. Potassium Bromide (KBr)
- Often used alone or in combination with Phenobarbital for epilepsy.
- Helps to stabilize brain activity and prevent seizures.
- Takes longer to reach full effectiveness (weeks to months).
- Side effects: Sedation, unsteady walking, excessive thirst, and hunger.
3. Levetiracetam (Keppra)
- A newer medication with fewer side effects than traditional AEDs.
- Works by preventing excessive brain activity that leads to seizures.
- Safe for dogs with liver disease, as it is primarily eliminated by the kidneys.
- Side effects: Mild drowsiness or gastrointestinal upset in some dogs.
4. Zonisamide
- Another newer antiepileptic drug used to treat canine seizure symptoms.
- Has fewer side effects than Phenobarbital or Potassium Bromide.
- Works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.
- Side effects: Sedation, lack of coordination, occasional nausea.
5. Gabapentin
- Sometimes used as a secondary treatment for seizures in Chihuahuas and other dogs.
- More commonly prescribed for neuropathic pain but can aid in seizure control.
- Short-acting and requires multiple doses per day.
- Side effects: Drowsiness and mild lethargy.
6. CBD Oil (Cannabidiol) – Alternative Treatment
- Some owners use CBD oil as a natural seizure treatment for dogs.
- Studies suggest it may help reduce seizure frequency in drug-resistant epilepsy.
- Not FDA-approved, so it should only be used under veterinary supervision.
Dietary Adjustments
A well-balanced diet can prevent seizure disorder in dogs caused by nutritional deficiencies or hypoglycemia.
Reducing Stress & Avoiding Triggers
Minimizing exposure to loud noises, flashing lights, or toxins can help prevent Chihuahua fitting episodes.
Routine Vet Visits
Regular check-ups are crucial to monitor health conditions that may lead to seizures in Chihuahuas.
Dog Breeds Prone to Seizures
Here are some of the breeds most commonly associated with seizure disorders in dogs:
1. Belgian Malinois
- Why are Belgian Malinois prone to seizures?
- This highly intelligent, active breed is genetically predisposed to epilepsy.
- Idiopathic epilepsy (hereditary seizures) is common in Belgian Malinois dogs.
- Seizures often start between 6 months to 3 years of age.
2. Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie)
- Why do Yorkies get seizures?
- Liver shunts (portosystemic shunts) are a common cause of seizures in Yorkies.
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can also trigger dog seizures in Yorkies, especially in puppies.
- They are at risk of neurological disorders that may lead to seizures.
3. Dachshund
- What causes seizures in Dachshunds?
- Genetic epilepsy is a concern in Dachshunds.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) can cause spinal-related seizures in some cases.
- Toxicity and low blood sugar can also contribute to Dachshund seizures.
4. Labrador Retriever
- Idiopathic epilepsy is common in Labs, with seizures typically starting between 1-5 years of age.
5. Golden Retriever
- This breed has a high prevalence of epilepsy, making seizures in Golden Retrievers relatively common.
6. Poodle (Toy and Miniature)
- Hypoglycemia and genetic epilepsy can lead to dog seizures in Poodles.
7. Boxer
- Boxers are prone to brain tumors, which can cause seizures in older dogs.
8. German Shepherd
- Seizures in German Shepherds are often linked to idiopathic epilepsy and autoimmune disorders.
9. Border Collie
- High intelligence and genetic epilepsy make Border Collies prone to seizure disorder in dogs.
Seizures in Chihuahuas: Wrapping up
If you’ve ever asked, “Why do Chihuahuas get seizures?” or “What causes Chihuahua seizures?” now you have a better understanding of potential triggers and solutions. While Chihuahuas and seizures can be a frightening combination, proper management and veterinary care can improve your pet’s quality of life.
If your Chihuahua is having seizures, work closely with your veterinarian to determine the best treatment plan. With the right care, your furry friend can live a happy, healthy life despite seizure disorder in dogs.
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