Why does my dog seize only when constipated? Vet says no link.

Question

My 7-year old cavapoo has had generalized seizures since he was one. They occur only when he is constipated. If he doesn't move his bowels twice a day, we know a seizure is imminent. He is alert during his seizures, he just doesn't have any control over his extremities; no loss of bladder or bowel control. Once over, he has a large bowel movement and is fine. Our vet says that this is "nonsense", that "constipation cannot cause seizures and is not related." I am not so sure. Any insight? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 6 years and 8 months old | 17 lbs

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM · Accepted Answer

The only connection I can see is that if Charley becomes constipated, he gets excited or upset or distressed, and that could be the trigger for a seizure. Your dog may also be suffering from a congenital disease called syringomelia, which is very common in King Cavalier Charles Spaniels. If he is constipated he may try to press hard and that may set off seizures caused by syringomelia. Your vet can examine him for that. In the meantime, I suggest you add fiber to Charley's food (canned pumpkin, not the pie filling) and have his anal sacs checked, This will help with constipation. If the anal sacs hurt because they are impacted or infected, he may not want to poop and then cause constipation.

Why does my dog seize only when constipated? Vet says no link.

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