Convulsions in Cats

Convulsions or seizures are defined as sudden, uncontrolled bursts of abnormal activity that last from one to three minutes. Signs may include anything from a slight twitch to salivating and foaming at the mouth. Shaking, jerking, stiffening of the legs or entire body as well as loss of urine and/or bowels may also occur. Epilepsy is the medical term used for cats that suffer from multiple seizures. Some breeds seem to be predisposed. Others develop Epilepsy as a result of various diseases like Diabetes. In most cases, the cause is not known. Vets call this Idiopathic Epilepsy.

CAUSES OF CONVULSIONS

• Unknown (Idiopathic Epilepsy)
• Low blood sugar, as with Diabetes
• Poison like antifreeze
• Kidney failure
• Liver failure
• Hereditary predisposition

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Cats that have had a seizure may appear dazed or might look fine once the episode is over. Don’t move a cat during the episode, leave him alone until it is over. Then put him in a calm quiet, dark room and call your vet.

Rub one to two teaspoons of karo syrup or honey onto his gums. This raises his blood sugar instantly and may provide relief if low blood sugar is the cause.

Although the average time of a convulsion is only 90 seconds and your cat may soon appear fine again, always call your vet.

WHAT YOUR VET CAN DO

Your vet will examine your cat and take blood and urine tests to try to determine the underlying cause. Specific recommendations will be made accordingly

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