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My senior dog had seizures. Could it be something other than a tumor?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund (Miniature Smooth Haired) | Male | neutered | 9 years and 4 months old | 13 lbs

My 10 year old dachshund had what his vet thinks were 2 mild seizures about 2.5 weeks apart. Blood tests negative. Everywhere I google says “brain tumour”. Could it be anything less fatal? He has no history of epilepsy. He seems fine now . No attacks for 6 days. Have a appointment with neurologist next week. I’m Sure they will want a $$$ scan. What are the odds these seizures are not tumour related?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

Veterinarian

Published on June 2nd, 2019

Initially it will be important to make sure they were seizures and not heart related (syncope/arrhythmia) as these can appear similar. Try to catch an event on video for your neurologist and document what happens before, during, and after the event. You are right the most common sign of a brain tumor is new onset seizures. But we do also always rule out any other causes like systemic issues, heart issues, and any other cancer elsewhere in the body. There are also other problems that can occur in the brain like inflammation. Ultimately what your neurologist will recommend will be based on the exam and information you provide but is likely to include chest xrays, an abdominal ultrasound, and MRI +/- CSF tap. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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