Understanding Types of Seizures in Cats

Seizures can have a wide range of causes. Some of the most common include:

Infectious diseases: In younger cats, conditions such as toxoplasmosis or feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) can lead to seizures. These diseases can affect the nervous system, causing abnormal brain activity.

Brain tumours: In older cats, brain cancers can be a culprit. Tumours can cause pressure on different areas of the brain, leading to seizures.

Other diseases: Cats with high blood pressure, severe liver disease, or other systemic illnesses may also experience seizures. When the body’s systems are out of balance, the brain can be impacted, triggering these events.

When your cat has a seizure, it’s crucial to investigate the underlying cause. A visit to the vet will likely include:

Blood tests: This help identify any infections, imbalances, or other systemic diseases that could be causing seizures.

Diagnostic imaging: Depending on the blood work results, your vet may recommend X-rays or ultrasounds to examine your cat’s internal organs and brain.

Advanced imaging: For more detailed information, procedures like CT scans or MRIs of your cat’s brain may be necessary. These can help identify tumours, inflammation, or other brain structural issues.

Spinal tap: A spinal tap (also called a cerebrospinal fluid tap) might be considered. This test collects fluid from around the spinal cord to check for inflammation or infection that could be contributing to the seizures.

If your cat has a seizure, there are a few steps you can take to help your vet diagnose and treat the condition effectively:

Stay calm: Though upsetting, try to remain as calm as possible. Avoid holding or restraining your cat during the seizure; they may scratch or bite without realising it. Once the seizure ends, your cat will likely be disoriented, so give them space to recover.

Document the event: Filming the seizure on your smartphone can be incredibly helpful. Sharing this video with your vet provides valuable insights into the type of seizure and the severity of the episode. Bring the video with you during your consultation.

Note the symptoms: Take note of any other unusual behaviours your cat shows before, during, or after the seizure. Do they paddle their legs? Do they lose control of their bladder or bowels? These details can help guide the diagnosis and treatment plan.

Consult your vet: Even if your cat has only experienced one seizure, it’s important to consult your vet immediately. While some cats may only ever have a single seizure, others may develop more frequent or severe episodes. Early intervention can help prevent further damage and improve your cat’s quality of life.

Though seizures can be scary, the key to helping your cat is understanding their condition and seeking appropriate vet care. By working closely with your vet and monitoring your cat’s symptoms, you can help them lead a more comfortable and stable life.

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.

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