Watching a pet have a seizure is frightening. The most helpful thing you can do is stay calm, keep them safe, and know when it’s time to seek emergency help.
➡️ Urgent care: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/services/emergencies-urgent-care/
➡️ Contact: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/contact-us/
What a seizure may look like
- Falling over, paddling legs
- Stiffness, jerking movements
- Drooling, foaming, or chomping
- Loss of bladder/bowel control
- Temporary confusion afterward (post-ictal phase)
What to do during a seizure
- Start a timer (duration matters)
- Keep hands away from the mouth (pets can bite unintentionally)
- Move furniture away; cushion head if possible
- Keep the room quiet/dim
- If safe, place a blanket under them for traction
When it’s an emergency
Seek emergency care if:
- Seizure lasts more than 2–3 minutes
- Your pet has multiple seizures in 24 hours
- They don’t recover awareness between seizures
- Seizure occurs with heatstroke, toxin ingestion, or trauma
- Your pet is having trouble breathing afterward
What to do after the seizure stops
- Keep them warm and calm
- Offer water when fully alert
- Prevent stairs/jumping (they may be uncoordinated)
- Call your veterinarian to discuss next steps
What your vet may recommend
Evaluation may include:
- Physical + neurologic exam
- Bloodwork (glucose, liver/kidney, electrolytes)
- Toxin screening when relevant
- Ongoing medication plan if seizures recur
Next steps
If this is your pet’s first seizure, call us today for guidance.
➡️ Contact: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/contact-us/
➡️ Request appointment: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/request-appointment/
