Epilepsy (Idiopathic Epilepsy)
Although epilepsy can occur as a result of some other medical problem, idiopathic epilepsy (meaning epilepsy with no known cause) is a genetically transmitted condition.
There was a time in the 60's and 70's when well known show dogs and prolific sires were widely used at stud, despite experiencing epileptic fits. Their genes were passed on end the incidence of epilepsy increased. The known sources were highlighted and reputable breeders stopped using such dogs at stud. Some of these dogs do still exist in some lines, sometimes on multiple occasions, although often disappeared off the end of the pedigree. It is therefore important to go to a breeder with knowledge of their bloodlines.
An epileptic dog will suffer from seizures or fits due to a disturbance in the electrical activity of brain cells and can occur in any breed. Idiopathic epilepsy usually starts between 1 and 3 years of age. Outside this age range, it is more likely to be caused by an active disease process, such as infection, trauma, metabolic disorder or tumour.
The effects of a seizure depend on the part of brain involved. There is usually a change in behaviour (confusion, fear, rage), the animal may or may not lose conciousness, motor activity causing rigid or jerky muscle spasms or paddling, and autonomic activity such as salivation, urination and defecation. Changes in sensory function may cause the animal to paw at the face, chase the tail, or bite at it's own body or the air.
The seizures may be partial or generalised and mild or severe (grand mal).
A dog experiencing a mild seizure may be confused with some weakness and muscle tremors. This dog may look to it's owner for reassurance. A dog in a grand mal seizure will be unconscious, with rigid or jerking limbs, and involuntary salivation, urination, and defecation.
Seizures vary in frequency from very occasional to almost constant. Status epilepticus is a series of seizures in rapid succession and requires immediate veterinary attention. Changes in behaviour may occur prior to a seizure (aura) and abnormal behaviour such as thirst, hunger, fatigue, depression or hyperactivity may occur afterwards (post-ictal).
Treatment will depend on the severity and frequency of the condition. Regular medication may be required if the seizures occur more than one a month or if the animal has experienced a grand mal seizure. The dosage may be adjusted depending on the frequency and severity of seizures and in some cases where none have occurred for several months, may be gradually reduced and sometimes discontinued altogether. Careful monitoring by the owner is therefore essential and many dogs with idiopathic epilepsy can lead a normal life.
Dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy, their siblings and parents should not be used for breeding.
