As a Pommy Parent, witnessing your Pomeranian have a seizure can be terrifying and overwhelming. Sadly, seizures in Pomeranians are not uncommon, and knowing how to respond can make a world of difference for both you and your furry friend. But what exactly should you do when your Pomeranian has seizures? Should you give them space? Hold them for comfort? In addition to ensuring they have the proper medication, what can you do to keep them safe and calm during such an event?
Watching your beloved Pomeranian go through a seizure can feel like a nightmare, especially if it’s the first time. It’s crucial to stay calm and understand that there are ways to help. In this post, we’ll discuss what causes seizures, what to do when your Pomeranian has seizures, and the various treatments available to help manage their condition.
Understanding Seizures in Pomeranians
A seizure occurs when there is an abnormal burst of electrical activity in the brain, leading to uncontrolled physical reactions. Seizures can vary widely in appearance—from mild twitches to full-body convulsions—and typically last less than a minute. However, when your Pomeranian has seizures that last longer than four minutes, it’s considered an emergency and requires immediate veterinary attention.
One of the most difficult aspects of managing seizures in Pomeranians is understanding the cause. Seizures can be triggered by a variety of factors, including head trauma, toxins, infections, and metabolic issues such as hypoglycemia. Anxiety or changes in routine can also sometimes trigger seizures in Pomeranians.
Seizures are generally classified into two categories:
- Generalized seizures (grand mal), which involve the entire body, often causing the dog to fall and lose consciousness.
- Partial seizures (petit mal), which affect only part of the body, such as twitching in the face or limbs.
When your Pomeranian has seizures, they may seem confused or disoriented, with a dazed look in their eyes. Some Pomeranians may even hide or seem unsteady on their feet, as was the case with my Sheika, who would appear distant and withdrawn before her seizures. Observing your Pomeranian’s behavior before and during a seizure is crucial for understanding the triggers and potential patterns of their condition.
Common Causes of Seizures in Pomeranians
It’s essential to understand the potential causes so you can better manage their condition. Some common causes include:
- Toxins: Exposure to pesticides, household cleaners, or certain foods can trigger seizures.
- Infections: Some viral or bacterial infections may cause brain inflammation, leading to seizures.
- Head Trauma: A hit to the head or any trauma can disrupt brain activity and result in seizures.
- Idiopathic Epilepsy: The most common but often unknown cause is idiopathic epilepsy, where the brain’s neurons become overly excitable and cause periodic “short circuits.”
- Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like hypoglycemia or diabetes can also lead to seizures in Pomeranians.
Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for determining the best course of treatment and management. In many cases, your vet may recommend diagnostic tests, such as blood work or brain scans, to pinpoint the cause of your Pomeranian’s seizures.
Types of Seizures in Pomeranians
There are several types of seizures that Pomeranians may experience, each with its own set of symptoms and causes.
1. Grand Mal Seizures
A grand mal seizure is the most severe type and involves the entire body. When your Pomeranian has seizures of this nature, they may fall down, lose consciousness, and experience violent convulsions. These seizures are often terrifying to witness, but they typically only last a minute or two.
2. Petit Mal Seizures
A petit mal seizure is less intense but still concerning. It may involve twitching in one part of the body, such as the head or limbs. Your Pomeranian may also display odd behavior like staring off into space or biting at the air.
3. Psychomotor Seizures
A less common form of seizure in Pomeranians is the psychomotor seizure. When your Pomeranian has seizures like this, they may exhibit unusual behaviors such as circling, barking for no reason, or biting at imaginary objects. These seizures can be difficult to identify but are no less serious.
What to Do When Your Pomeranian Has Seizures
If you ever find yourself in the distressing situation where your Pomeranian is having a seizure, there are several important steps to follow to ensure their safety and comfort.
1. Stay Calm
When your Pomeranian has seizures, it’s vital to remain calm. Your pet is sensitive to your emotions, and if you become anxious, they may pick up on that, making the situation worse. Take deep breaths and focus on what you need to do to help them.
2. Keep Them Safe
Move your Pomeranian away from anything that could harm them, such as furniture, sharp objects, or stairs. If possible, guide them to an open area where they can move freely without hurting themselves. However, avoid holding or restraining them during the seizure.
3. Avoid the Mouth and Head
Contrary to popular belief, you should never attempt to put anything near your Pomeranian’s mouth during a seizure. They will not swallow their tongue, and trying to open their mouth could result in an accidental bite.
4. Time the Seizure
If possible, keep track of how long the seizure lasts. If the seizure continues for more than four minutes, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. The length and frequency of seizures are critical pieces of information for your veterinarian.
5. Speak Softly
During and after a seizure, softly speak to your Pomeranian to reassure them. Let them hear your voice and feel your touch, as this can help them recover from the episode more smoothly.
After the Seizure: Monitoring and Care
When your Pomeranian has seizures, the moments following the episode are just as important as what happens during it. Here’s how to help your dog recover:
1. Monitor Recovery
After a seizure, it may take several minutes to several hours for your Pomeranian to fully recover. During this time, continue to monitor them closely, ensuring they are comfortable and safe.
2. Record the Event
Take note of when the seizure occurred, what symptoms your Pomeranian displayed, and how long it lasted. This information is invaluable for your veterinarian in determining the best treatment plan.
3. Reassure Your Pet
Remain calm and reassuring. Gently pet your Pomeranian and speak softly to them as they recover. Your Pom may be disoriented or confused, so staying by their side will help ease their anxiety.
Seeking Veterinary Help
When your Pomeranian has seizures, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Your vet may recommend a serum chemistry profile, which is similar to a complete blood count (CBC) and provides a detailed look at your Pomeranian’s health. This test can reveal potential triggers, such as metabolic issues or infections, that may be contributing to the seizures.
In some cases, more advanced tests like an EKG, CAT scan, or MRI may be needed to evaluate your Pomeranian’s brain activity. Once the cause of the seizures is identified, your vet will work with you to develop a treatment plan, which may include medication such as phenobarbital or potassium bromide.
Newer medications like KEPPRA (levetiracetam) and Zonisamide have also shown promise in treating seizures. If your vet is familiar with these options, it’s worth discussing whether they could be effective for your Pom.
Can Seizures in Pomeranians Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, there’s no way to gaurantee your Pomeranian’s health or prevent seizures, especially if the cause is idiopathic epilepsy. However, understanding the triggers and working with your veterinarian can help you manage the condition and reduce the frequency of seizures. Maintaining a consistent routine, avoiding known triggers, and providing medication as prescribed are the best steps you can take when your Pomeranian has seizures.
Stay Calm and Informed
When your Pomeranian has seizures, it can be a heart-wrenching experience, but staying calm and informed is key to helping them through the episode. Knowing the potential causes, types of seizures, and how to respond will go a long way in ensuring your Pom stays as comfortable and safe as possible. Work closely with your veterinarian to develop a treatment plan, and remember that with the right care, many Pomeranians with seizures can live happy, healthy lives.
By understanding the facts and following the steps outlined in this post, you’ll be better equipped to handle your Pomeranian’s seizures and provide the care they need to thrive.