Seizures can be defined as involuntary muscle movements or convulsions resulting from overstimulation of the nervous system and brain activity. Seizures are common with a majority having no known etiology or are genetic.
The most common cause of seizures in dogs is epilepsy commonly known as seizure disorders. Epilepsy occurs when a dog experiences two or more unprovoked seizures in a period of one year.
Management of seizures has a lot to do with the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) coupled with good nutrition. Getting the best dog food for seizures goes along way in controlling the frequency of seizures and managing the side effects that come with the use of AEDs.
Epilepsy can greatly reduce the quality of life of a dog. It can also be a source of worry and a financial burden to caregivers. The use of supplements and a good diet is ideal.
What Causes Seizures in dogs?
A seizure occurs as a result of abnormal activity in the brain leading to involuntary muscle movements. There many causes of seizures in dogs. Among these include:
Idiopathic or Genetic
These occur due as a result of abnormalities in the genetic makeup of dogs. They are easily passed from generation to generation.
- Brain tumors: Brain cancers can alter brain activity resulting in seizures.
- Head trauma: Brain injuries are also a common cause of seizures.
- Brain infection: Inflammation of the brain meninges or infection in the brain can cause seizures.
- High or low blood sugar: Severe or untreated hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia common in diabetics often leads to unconsciousness and shock. In extreme cases seizures result due to lack of glucose supply to the brain.
- Stroke: Stroke often results from poor blood circulation in the body. The poor blood supply in the brain robs it of essential oxygen and glucose resulting in seizures.
- Electrolyte problems: Electrolyte imbalances e.g. low calcium, sodium, and magnesium levels can manifest in the form of seizures.
- Anemia: Lack of iron often leads to reduced hemoglobin levels in the blood which is responsible for transporting oxygen and glucose to all body tissues including the brain.
- Toxins: Organophosphate poisoning among others often cause accumulation of water (edema) in the brain which can lead to seizures.
- Kidney and liver disease: This often leads to the accumulation of toxins in the body resulting in seizures.
Seizures can be classified as:
- Focal seizures: This usually starts from a particular part of the brain and named according to the part they happen.
- Generalized seizures: These types of seizures start from both sides of the brain and often lead to muscle spasms, blackouts, or unconsciousness. Generalized seizures can further be classified as :
- Tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures: These are the most noticeable type of seizures. They manifest with the body stiffening, jerking, falling, drooling, and loss of control of urine or bowel movements. At times the dog might bite its own tongue. It usually lasts between 1 to 3 minutes. If it goes for longer it is usually termed as status epiliticus which can cause permanent brain damage.
- Clonic seizures: Causes muscle spasms affect the face, neck, and front limbs. It lasts for several minutes.
- Tonic seizures: These muscle spasms of the front and back limbs as well as the trunk. They often occur during sleep. They last up to 20 seconds.
- Atonic seizures: These occur when body muscles go limb causing one to fall forward which may cause a head injury. They last up to 15 seconds.
- Myoclonic seizures: These occur when the muscles suddenly jerk.
- Absence ( petit mal ) seizures: These usually manifest when a dog stares blankly into open space and the eyes may roll backward. They last a few seconds and often many pet owners may not notice them. They occur before clonic seizures.
Foods And Ingredients To Avoid
Research has revealed an association between nutrition and frequency of seizures. Certain ingredients or foods often aggravate the occurrence of seizures and should be avoided.
Pet owners should always go through the ingredients when purchasing commercial dog food or better yet try to prepare their own meals or buy dog food specifically recommended by their veterinarian. Common foods to avoid include:
a. Gluten diets: Gluten is not only a common food allergen it is also a cause of may autoimmune diseases. Gluten diets have also been found to stimulate opioid receptors in the brain increasing the likelihood of a seizure occurring. Gluten is commonly found in commercial foods in the form of wheat, soy, oats, and rye.
b. Grains: This is also common in commercial dog food. Grains provide very little nutrition. They are also common allergens, lead to digestive problems and affect organs such as the liver. They also cause autoimmune diseases and can lead to insulin intolerance and diabetes.
Grains can also cause seizures. Thie high phytate content disrupts the body’s ability to absorb minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and sodium leading to serious electrolyte imbalances.
c. Carbohydrates: The most common source of carbohydrates in commercial dog foods is grains. Simple carbohydrates e.g. grains are the most harmful compared to complex carbohydrates. They are easily broken down and have a high glycemic index.
This often leads to a blood sugar crash which often leads to a hypoglycemic shock a common cause of seizures.
Natural Remedies for seizures in dogs
1. Dietary changes: As discussed above diet is a great contributor to the occurrence and frequency of seizures. Avoid gluten, simple carbohydrates, and grains. Some foods can also be toxic and cause seizures.
These include Bell peppers, chocolate, grapes, onions, etc. The red dye 40 commonly found in commercial dog foods have been shown to cause seizures.
2. Essential fatty acids: These include omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Essential fatty acids contain anti-inflammatory properties which help maintain the health of nervous tissue as well as helps in brain development.
They also help reduce the blood concentration of triglycerides which is a common side effect of the use of Phenobarbital, a common AED.
3. Homeopathic oils: These are administered when a dog is having a seizure. These natural oils are applied directly on the skin or gums of a seizing dog ending the seizure and pain in minutes. Such include belladonna, aconite, and choline.
4. Acupressure: This helps to ease animal pressure during a seizure by applying pressure on pressure points such as the base of a dog’s nose or by pressing above their upper lip.
5. Melatonin: This a naturally occurring hormone responsible for sleep. It is administered to prevent the occurrence of seizures at night.
6. Honey: Seizures resulting from low blood sugar can be prevented by giving 2 teaspoons of honey daily.
7. Ice packs: rubbing an ice park along the back of a dog can help stop seizures caused by hyperthermia.
Common dog foods, supplements, and treats suitable for dogs suffering from seizures include the following:
Best Dog Food For Seizures
1. Purina Pro Plan Neurocare
This is a dry food prescription diet specifically formulated for dogs with neurological conditions. It is made from medium-chain triglycerides and high-quality ingredients with high nutritive benefits.
Key Features
- Made from chicken meal and chicken
- Contains Omega 3 fatty acids
- Contains antioxidants such as vitamin E, A and C as well as selenium
- Contains DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
The medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) are easily digestible putting less stress on the liver which is greatly affected since it helps in the metabolism of antiepileptic drugs. Omega 3 fatty acids also help to increase immunity and reduce the high number of blood triglycerides, a side effect of using phenobarbitol.
DHA and EPA help in brain development and have anti-inflammatory properties that help protect nerves. Contains antioxidants that protect neurological tissue from damage by free radicals.
Pros
- Contains DHA and EPA.
- Contains antioxidants
- Contains omega 3 fatty acids and MCTs.
Cons
- Expensive
This pet food is specifically formulated for a dog with neurological and cognitive disorders. It contains ingredients that maintain the integrity of the neurological conditions side effects of phenobarbital.
2. Royal Canin Selected Protein
This is a prescription veterinary diet dry food for adult dogs. It’s formulated to give a complete and balanced diet and rich in easily digestible protein.
Key Features
- Protein-rich diet
- Contains omega 3 fatty acids
- Contains DHA and EPA
- Contains Vitamin A, B, C, and E and select amino acids e.g. Taurine
Omega 3 fatty acids help in reducing blood triglyceride levels which shoot up as a side effect of the use of AEDs and for neurological function and brain development. DHA is essential for optimal brain development and protects neurological function.
EPA has anti-inflammatory properties while Vitamin B (thiamine) enhances nerve regeneration. Niacin helps in lowering blood triglyceride and support brain function. Taurine helps in nerve regeneration.
Pros
- Contains Omega 3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA
- Contains thiamine, taurine, niacin
- Grain and gluten-free
- Contains easily digestible protein for repair of muscles
- Good for dogs with gastrointestinal problems
- Contains taurine which also helps in nerve regeneration.
Cons
- Expensive
Canine Selected Protein Adult PR Dry dog food helps in nerve regeneration, optimal brain function, and reducing blood triglyceride levels.
3. Royal Canin Small Adult
This is a dry dog food specifically made for adult small dogs between 9 – 22 lbs from 10 months to 8 years of age.
Key Features
- Made from corn and chicken
- Contain L-carnitine.
- Rich in DHA and EPA
- Provides a completely balanced diet.
This dry food is best for fussy eaters. It’s rich aroma and taste make it very acceptable. It’s made using kibble technology which helps to keep dental tartar at bay, therefore, preventing gum disease. L-carnitine helps to break down fats which increase with intake of antiepileptic drugs.
DHA and EPA are essential for normal brain function as well as the regeneration of neurological tissue. High protein helps in the repair and growth of muscle and other tissues in the body including nervous tissue.
Pros
- Rich in DHA and EPA
- Contains L-carnitine
- Tasty for fussy eaters
- Offers a complete and balanced diet
Cons
- For only small adult dogs.
Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Mini Adult Dry Dog Food offers a diet packed with nutrients that reduce inflammation of the nerves promote their regeneration and brain development.
4. Blue Buffalo Wilderness
This food is a high protein diet formulated for large breed adult dogs. It promotes regeneration of nervous tissue, joints, heart and promotes fat metabolism.
Key Features
- Made from chicken
- Contains L-carnitine
- Has Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin
- Contains taurine
- Grain and gluten-free.
The digestible proteins are essential for the growth and repair of lean muscles. L- carnitine helps in fat metabolism as AEDs cause an increase in blood triglyceride levels. Taurine helps to reduce the frequency of seizures.
Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids help promote healthy skin, reduce blood triglyceride levels, and reduce inflammation on nervous tissue. Chondroitin and glucosamine help prevent osteoarthritis and promote bone health and mobility.
Pros
- Good source of protein
- Contains L-carnitine and Taurine
- Rich in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
- Fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin
- Contains no artificial flavors
- Grain and gluten-free
Cons
- For large breed adult dogs only
This food not only works for epileptic dogs but also offers additional benefits that affect most large breed dogs concurrently.
5. Purina Pro Plan Savor
This dry dog food is formulated for dogs 7 years and above. It made from chicken.
Key Features
- Has shredded chicken as the first ingredient
- Rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
- Contains DHA and EPA
- Enriched with live probiotics
- Contains glucosamine
Omega 3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that protect nervous tissue. They also help to lower blood triglyceride levels. DHA and EPA help in brain development and the optimal functioning of nervous tissue.
Glucosamine has anti-inflammatory properties which help prevent and relieve arthritic symptoms The live probiotics help in digestion as senior dogs are prone to bowel disturbances.
Pros
- Rich in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
- Contains DHA and EPA
- Contains Vitamin A, C, E and selenium
- Rich in Protein
- Contains glucosamine
- Contains live probiotics
Cons
- For dogs over 7 years
This diet helps to reduce triglyceride levels which predispose them to pancreatitis, heart diseases, and diabetes. DHA, EPA, and Omega 3 fatty acids help to reduce inflammation of the nervous tissue while glucosamine helps to relieve arthritis.
6. Rachael Ray Nutrish Zero Grain
This is a dry dog food containing salmon as the first ingredient.
Key Features
- Contains salmon as the first ingredient
- Contains no grain, gluten or filler ingredients
- Contains vitamins and chelated minerals
- Rich in fiber
- Made from natural ingredients in the USA
- Contains no artificial colors, preservatives, additives or flavors
Salmon is a rich source of easily digestible quality proteins essential frot the growth and repair of lean muscle. It also contains Omega 3 fatty acids that help protect the nervous system from inflammation.
It also contains fruits and vegetables a rich source of fiber and antioxidants. Vitamin and chelated minerals help in the absorption of nutrients in the body.
Pros
- Rich in omega 3 fatty acids
- Free from grains and gluten
- Rich in antioxidants
- Rich in fiber
Cons
- Expensive
This dog food offers a rich source of antioxidants and essential fatty acids that help in the development of the brain as well as protect the nervous system from inflammation and cell injury. It also lacks grains and gluten which are known to stimulate the development of seizures.
7. Amazing Nutritionals Omega-3
These are chewable treats made from pure fish oil rich in Omega 3 fatty acids.
Key Features
- Bacon and liver-flavored tablets
- Made from pure fish oil
- Contains omega 3, 6 and 9 essential fatty acids
- Contains liquids, therefore, no mess
- Has no “fishy” odor
- Rich in calcium
Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids are powerful antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. They help strengthen the immune system which helps manage and control seizures. They also aid in brain development as well as promote joint health. They help to relieve itchy skin leaving a shiny coat.
Pros
- No fishy odor
- Bacon and liver-flavored
- Contains no messy liquid inside
- Made from pure fish oil containing 18% EPA and 12% DHA
- Rich in calcium
Cons
- The price point is on the higher side
Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids are essential in brain development as well as in strengthening the immune system which helps reduce the frequency of seizures. It also promotes the health of the nervous tissue.
Essential fatty acids also promote healthy growth of the skin and give dogs a shiny coat.
8. Nutrition Strength
These are dog supplements that help to rebalance and fortify your dog’s immune and nervous system to better them control and manage seizures.
Key Features
- Can be used concurrently with seizure medication
- Formulated with organic Passion Flower and L-Tryptophan
- organic Chamomile
- Suitable for all dogs breeds, sizes and age
- Contains no gluten, soy, corn or grain
- Free from artificial additives, colors, and preservative
- Contains no GMO
These supplements help to reduce the frequency of epileptic fits by strengthening their immune system. Organic Passion Flower and L-Tryptophan helps to balance your dog’s behavior and limit nervous outbursts.
Valerian Root helps to limit damage from attacks by reducing scratching and restlessness. Chamomile, on the other hand, helps to relax your pet and relieve stress which can lead to unrestrained jumping, biting, and barking.
Pros
- Helps to reduce the frequency of seizures
- Control and manage epileptic fits
- Limit damage from attacks
- Support a strong immune system
Cons
- It’s expensive
These dog supplements help to strengthen the dog’s immune system, therefore, making it less likely for your dog to suffer from epileptic fits and seizures.
9. Doc Ackerman’s
Doc Ackerman's
These supplements help to calm the dog during a seizure to help lessen the effects of nervous conditions.
Key Features
- Contains Valerian Root
- Contains Blue Vervain
- Contains Passion Flower
- Contains Chamomile
- Contains Ginseng
- Contains Nutmeg & St. John’s Wort
- Can be used for both cats and dogs
- Can be given with food, water or any baked good
Valerian root contained in the supplements has natural anticonvulsant and antispasmodic properties which have a calming effect on dogs during seizures. Blue Vervain, on the other hand, is a natural tranquilizer that has a calming effect on over-excited nerves.
Passionflower is a powerful sleeping aid which helps to lessen the effects of nervous conditions.
Pros
- Has a calming effect on dogs during seizures and lessens their effects
- Can be administered with food or water
- Can be used on both dogs and cats
- Rich in protein and fiber for additional nutrition
Cons
- Expensive
This supplement has anticonvulsant and antispasmodic properties that help to calm a dog when experiencing an epileptic fit.
10. Hemp Oil
These supplements are made from organic hemp seeds of which their oil is used as a pain reliever and a tranquilizer.
Key Features
- Made from hemp seed extract
- Contains vitamins
- Rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids
- Free from THC
- Contains no herbicides, pesticides, GMO
- Contains no gluten or fillers
Hemp seed oil extract is known for its calming effects making it popular in the treatment of seizures, aggressive behavior, separation anxiety, travel issues, and barking.
It also has strong anti-inflammatory properties making it a natural painkiller especially in cases of arthritis, hip dysplasia for better, mobility, agility, and energy. In addition, omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids stimulate good skin health and hair coat, stimulates appetite, and digestion.
Pros
- Has calming properties
- Has anti-inflammatory properties
- Can be administered directly into the dog’s mouth, in treats, food, or in water.
Cons
- The price point is on the higher side
Hemp oil is a natural oil that is used for pain relief in joint degenerative diseases. It is also used for its calming effects in the treatment of seizures, anxiety, and aggression.
Bottom Line
Diets formulated specifically for dogs with epilepsy are not yet in the market due to the fact that epilepsy has many causes. What veterinarians recommend is to offer diets that help relieve the side effects of medications as well as promote healthy nervous tissue and regeneration of the same.
It’s also wise for pet owners to look for foods that contain supplements such as DHA, EPA, omega3 fatty acids, fish oil capsules, Vitamin D3, thiamine, taurine, etc. It is also important to keep your dog at a steady weight since AEDs are shown to cause an increase in appetite.
Low-fat diets or protein-rich diets are therefore advised. Anecdotal theories also suggest that ketogenic diets can help reduce seizures but no studies have proved this yet. It is therefore wise to contact your veterinarian before putting your dog on a keto diet.
The Review
Best Dog Food For Seizures
Here's our reviews of the best dog foods for seizures to help you find the best diet for your dog.
Review Breakdown
- Purina Pro Plan Neurocare
- Royal Canin Selected Protein
- Royal Canin Small Adult
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness
- Purina Pro Plan Savor
- Rachael Ray Nutrish
- Amazing Nutritionals Omega
- Nutrition Strength
- Doc Ackerman's
- Hemp Oil