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Why is my dog having seizures after surgery and anesthesia?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Cocker Spaniel | Female | 25 lbs

My seven months old Cocker Spaniel started having seizures within the first 24 hours after a surgery. The seizures are becoming stronger every time, vet is giving her diazepam but haven’t figured out the right dose yet. He says it probably is a side effect from the anestesia , I am very worried about her and need a second opinion. (She never had seizures before this)

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on November 8th, 2021

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I am sorry to hear about Gin. Seizures is a potential side effect of general anesthesia, usually related to blood pressure drop and not adequate oxygen supply to the brain while a patient is asleep. It is often a self-limiting side-effect, so many animals will stop having seizures within a few days after general anesthesia. However, persistent, life-long seizures are also possible. It would be worth to discuss with your local vet using phenobarbital for Gin (this medication prevents seizures while diazepam only stops seizures when they occur). Also, brain MRI should be considered if the seizures are frequent and severe. Good luck. I hope Gin will fully recover soon.

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