If your pet is experiencing a seizure, it’s understandably alarming and distressing. Here are some steps to take to ensure both your safety and your pet’s.
If you have been given an emergency kit: administer diazepam intranasal. If you are not comfortable or do not feel safe touching your pet’s face while they are seizing, give diazepam into the rectum as instructed in kit materials.
Stay Calm: It’s essential to remain as calm as possible. This will help you respond appropriately and help others around you stay calm as well.
Do Not Touch the Mouth: There’s a misconception that animals will swallow their tongue during a seizure, which is not true. Do not attempt to put anything in your pet’s mouth. They could inadvertently bite you or bite and swallow the object.
Move Objects Away: If your pet is near any furniture, sharp objects, or anything else they might hurt themselves on, quickly move those objects out of the way, if possible.
Protect Their Head: If you can do so safely, place a soft item, like a pillow or folded blanket, under your pet’s head to protect them from injury.
Dim the Lights and Reduce Noise: Some animals may be sensitive to stimuli, which can prolong or exacerbate the seizure. Dim the lights and reduce any loud noises in the environment.
Keep Other Pets Away: If you have other pets, keep them separated during the seizure. They might not understand what’s happening and could either be scared or become aggressive.
Time the Seizure: If possible, look at a clock and time the seizure. This information can be valuable for your veterinarian. Generally, if a seizure lasts for more than 5 minutes, or if your pet has multiple seizures in a row without regaining consciousness, it’s considered an emergency, and you should seek veterinary care immediately.
Avoid Getting Bitten: Even the gentlest pet can unintentionally bite when having a seizure. Always be cautious and avoid putting your hand or face near your pet’s mouth.
Stay With Your Pet: Once the seizure ends, your pet might be disoriented and scared. Stay with them to provide comfort. However, approach them gently, as they might be confused and not recognize you initially.
Contact Your Veterinarian: After the seizure has ended, contact your vet to inform them of the event. They may want to see your pet for a check-up, or they may provide guidance over the phone.
It is useful to keep a record of your pet’s seizures and perceived triggers. If you observed any potential triggers before the seizure started (e.g., exposure to a particular chemical, specific timing, strange behavior, etc.), make a note of it to tell your vet.
Take pet to an Emergency Veterinarian if seizure is not stopping after 3 min. If this is the first time your pet has had a seizure, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care as soon as possible to determine the cause and get guidance on future care and management. If your pet has a known seizure disorder, follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for post-seizure care.
