My dog suddenly shook, screamed, and is lethargic. Was it a seizure?

Question

My small dog, about 1 and a half years old seems to have had a seizure. I am at work but my mother called and said he was sleeping, suddenly jolted up with his back arched, screamed out and then shook for a couple moments. She said he did not seem to be breathing during this time but came out of it. She said he seems ok and responsive now but is lethargic. He has never had any previous health issues. Does this sound like a seizure or could it be something else? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 1 year and 7 months old | 10 lbs

Amber Da Silva, DVM · Accepted Answer

This does sound like it could be a seizure. It is common for them to stiffen up and then shake. The lethargy is also common after a seizure. Sometimes seizures and fainting can look very similar, so we want to be sure which one it is. Seizures can happen for many different reasons. There could be medical conditions such as epilepsy, low blood sugar or liver disease that results in seizures. There are also toxins like insecticides, chocolate, xylitol and many others that can cause seizures. I would recommend that you visit your family veterinarian for an examination. They will most likely want to run a blood panel to see if the organs are functioning properly. If these episodes continue, I would also encourage you to keep a log of these episodes (date, time, duration) so that you know how often they are happening. If you can catch one of the episodes on video, your vet will have a better idea if it is a seizure or something else. I hope this helps.

My dog suddenly shook, screamed, and is lethargic. Was it a seizure?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?

Share