Audiogenic seizures in cats and what triggers them

As the name implies, the provoking factor of an audiogenic seizure is sound. It isn’t just the loudness of a noise that sets these episodes off. Sounds with a sharp or sudden quality, like a beep or click, seem more likely to cause the brain’s normal electrical activity to misfire.

Some cats show obvious signs like trembling through their whole body or even collapsing. Others go the opposite way and become unusually still or distant. The same cat might respond in different ways to different noises, and their reaction can also change depending on how often they hear the sound and what else is happening around them.

Because there’s no obvious lesion or structural abnormality behind these seizures, diagnosis can take time. Most owners don’t immediately think to connect a faint household sound with a strange episode. Once they raise their concerns with their vet, the next step is to rule out other common conditions.

As mentioned, there’s no one standard way for a cat to experience an audiogenic seizure. Some cats simply pause or go still for a moment, which may look like daydreaming or distraction, but is in fact a neurological event. Others may seem to flinch or twitch slightly in response to a sound that, to us, appears harmless.

In more severe cases, the fact that they’re having a seizure is unmistakable. Muscle tremors, limb paddling or loss of bladder control can occur. There may also be excessive drooling, head shaking or stiffened posture. These episodes are brief but confronting, particularly when they escalate without warning.

The intensity can vary over time, and some cats may go weeks without any signs at all. This is why close observation matters. Noticing patterns, especially in relation to specific noises, is often the only way to connect the episodes to a common trigger.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for audiogenic seizures, but they can often be managed successfully. For cats experiencing recurrent or severe episodes, we may recommend medication to help reduce frequency. A common option is Levetiracetam, which is an anti-seizure drug that’s generally well tolerated in cats and doesn’t have the same risk of liver effects as some of the older medications.

Alongside medication, it’s important to look at the environment. Once owners are aware of the specific triggers, finding ways to minimise the cat’s exposure will help. Sometimes, this requires changing message alert tones on your phone, using soft-close drawers in the house or simply being a little more mindful when handling noisy objects like foil, paper or keys.

With medication and environmental support, many cats remain stable long-term and enjoy a good quality of life. Ongoing monitoring helps fine-tune treatment and keep each cat comfortable, safe and happy.

It’s an unusual idea, and you might never have thought that sound could cause a seizure. But for some senior cats, that’s the reality.

At Cat Specialist Services, we’re here to help with conditions that affect cats, including all types of seizures and other neurological issues. If you’ve noticed changes in behaviour that seem to follow certain noises, or suspect seizure activity, speak with your vet about a referral or contact our friendly team today.

Vets can refer patients for treatment here.

If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.