Cat Seizures Explained: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Guide

Table of Contents

What are cat seizures?

Cat seizures are not a disease, but they may be a sign or symptom of one. They usually occur when normal activity in the brain is interrupted by sudden and very abnormal, electrical impulses. This abnormal brain function in the cerebral cortex may result in uncontrollable twitching or shaking of your cat’s body. Read on to learn all you need to know about cat seizures.

Types of feline seizures

There are two types of cat seizures, generalized seizures and partial (focal) seizures.

However, Small Door Veterinarian explains that generalized seizures can further be divided into two subgroups (grand mal and petit mal). It is important to understand all these categories properly to make an accurate diagnosis. This is because the signs of cat seizures are dependant on the type of seizure your cat is experiencing.

Generalized seizures in cats

Generalized feline seizures occur when both halves of the brain experience abnormal electrical impulses. During these seizures, your cat may lose consciousness and start twitching uncontrollably. The legs of the cat may start moving in a paddling motion as if he/she was trying to swim. The following are the two types of generalized feline seizures.

• Grand Mal Seizure
• Petit Mal Seizure

Feline grand mal seizures

Also known as tonic-clonic seizures, they are the most common form of generalized seizures. The clinical recognition of these seizures is pretty easy because the cat will lose awareness and fall to the ground. A grand mal seizure generally lasts for a few minutes but its effects can be felt long after.

Causes of grand mal seizures in cats

The primary cause of feline seizures is the damage to the brain (epilepsy). Certain diseases and injuries (like leukemia and head injuries) that directly impact the brain can cause these seizures. The Nest also says that some of the biggest risk factors of cat seizures are as follows.

• Head injuries and trauma
• Brain tumors
• Infections
• Exposure to toxic substances (Poisoning)
• Leukemia
• Cancer

Signs and symptoms of grand mal seizures

Although losing awareness is the primary symptom of cat seizures, International Cat Care also suggests some other signs to identify grand mal seizures in cats.

• Convulsions
• Loss of consciousness
• Shaking/Paddling of the legs
• Loss of Bowel and Urinary Control

What to do if a cat has a grand mal seizure?

If your cat is experiencing a seizure, remove sharp or heavy objects from his/her surroundings. If your feline companion is sitting at a high place, try to bring him/her to the ground. However, ensure proper caution while doing so because a cat having a seizure can attack the owner. Never bring your hands within the vicinity of your kitty’s mouth because he/she can try to have a bite.