Seeing your pet have a seizure can be one of the most frightening experiences a pet owner faces. It’s sudden, unpredictable, and deeply unsettling. At Omega Veterinary Group in San Mateo, California, we understand how overwhelming these moments can be—and we’re here to help you feel more prepared and supported.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about pet seizures: what they are, what to do when they happen, how to care for your pet afterward, and how seizures can be managed long term.

Understanding Seizures in Pets

What Is a Seizure?

A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain that causes changes in behavior, movement, or consciousness. Common symptoms include:

  • Jerking or stiffening movements
  • Drooling or foaming at the mouth
  • Collapsing or twitching
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Confusion or disorientation afterward

What Causes Seizures?

Seizures can have many different causes. These include:

While seizures are more common in dogs than cats, both species can be affected. Certain dog breeds (like Beagles, Australian Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers) may be genetically predisposed to epilepsy.

What to Do During a Seizure

1. Stay Calm

Your pet needs you to stay composed. Panicking won’t help them—and your calm presence can go a long way in keeping them safe.

2. Keep Them Safe

Gently move your pet away from stairs, sharp corners, furniture, or other hazards. Never try to restrain them—this could cause injury to you or your pet.

3. Time the Seizure

Use your phone or a clock to track how long the seizure lasts. This information is incredibly helpful for your veterinarian.

Tip: Most seizures last under 2 minutes. If your pet seizes for more than 5 minutes, it’s a medical emergency.

4. Protect Without Touching

If possible, place a towel or cushion under their head, but never put your hands near their mouth. Pets can’t control their movements and may bite accidentally.

5. Don’t Give Medication Unless Directed

Do not administer any medications during the seizure unless you’ve been instructed to by your veterinarian in advance.

After the Seizure: What Happens Next?

Post-Ictal Phase

After the seizure ends, your pet may:

  • Be disoriented or confused
  • Pace or wander
  • Appear blind or uncoordinated
  • Be extremely tired

This can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.

How You Can Help:

  • Keep the lights dim and noise to a minimum.
  • Allow your pet time to rest and recover in a safe, quiet space.
  • Offer water once they seem stable.
  • Provide comfort with gentle voice and presence—but avoid overstimulation.

When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care

Call your veterinarian immediately if:

  • The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
  • Your pet has multiple seizures in a short period (cluster seizures).
  • Your pet doesn’t recover normally afterward.
  • It’s your pet’s first seizure.
  • A senior pet experiences a sudden onset of seizures.

These can all signal an emergency or indicate a serious underlying condition.

Help! Is This a Pet Emergency? – AAHA

Diagnosing the Cause of Seizures

At Omega Veterinary Group, we use comprehensive diagnostics to determine the cause of your pet’s seizures. This may include:

  • Blood and urine testing
  • Neurological exams
  • Advanced imaging (MRI or CT scans)
  • Toxin screenings

Understanding the cause is the first step toward developing a safe and effective treatment plan.

Long-Term Seizure Management

Medication

If your pet has frequent or severe seizures, they may need anticonvulsant medications such as:

  • Phenobarbital
  • Potassium bromide
  • Levetiracetam (Keppra)
  • Zonisamide

Your veterinarian will select the appropriate treatment based on your pet’s diagnosis, size, and response to initial therapy. Regular follow-ups and bloodwork are essential to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects. Learn more: Managing Seizures in Dogs – Cornell Vet.

Lifestyle Adjustments

You can help reduce seizure risk by:

  • Keeping your pet on a regular schedule
  • Avoiding known triggers like flashing lights or loud noises
  • Providing a calm, low-stress home environment
  • Ensuring proper nutrition and hydration
  • Preventing toxin exposure (keep cleaning products and human meds secure)

Documenting Seizure Episodes

Keeping a seizure journal is one of the most useful things you can do. Record the:

  • Date and time of the seizure
  • Duration
  • Symptoms observed
  • Any known triggers or preceding behavior
  • Post-seizure behavior

This log will help your vet monitor patterns and adjust treatment plans more accurately.

You’re Not Alone—We’re Here to Help

At Omega Veterinary Group, we know how scary seizures can be. But we also know that with the right knowledge and care, many pets with seizures go on to live long, happy lives.

If your pet has had a seizure—or if you’re noticing signs like twitching, staring, or sudden collapse—don’t wait. Our experienced, compassionate veterinary team is here to guide you every step of the way.

You’re your pet’s best advocate—and we’re here to support you. Let’s work together to give your pet the comfort, safety, and care they deserve.