Idiopathic Epilepsy in Dogs

Idiopathic Epilepsy in Dogs

By: Dr. John McDonnell

Section: Follow-up

  • Maintain a complete seizure log with information regarding the seizures, any medication change, veterinary visits and illnesses. Always follow your veterinarian's recommendations regarding drug administration and monitoring.

  • Blood tests will be required to monitor your dog's response to therapy and guard against toxic effects from the seizures as well as the anti-convulsant medications.

  • The most common reason why treatment for idiopathic epilepsy fails is the lack of proper administration of drug. Do not change medication dose or frequency without speaking first to your veterinarian.

  • Gastrointestinal or other illnesses may affect drug administration and influence seizure frequency or severity.

  • Be aware that other drugs can affect anti-convulsant drug distribution. Always ask what the effect any drug may have on your dog's seizures.


  • During a seizure, do not attempt to open your dog's mouth or manipulate its tongue – you may get bitten inadvertently.

  • Protect your dog from injury by moving the animal away from hazardous objects like furniture with sharp corners or harmful locations like the top of the stairs.

  • Give your dog sufficient time to recover from the seizure. Speak calmly and try to comfort your dog during a seizure.

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