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Why Is My Pet Having Fits?

Symptom: Fits & Seizures

Fitting or seizures can be very distressing to witness in your pet. They can happen for many reasons, including underlying health conditions or sudden triggers. In this article, we’ll explain what seizures can look like, common causes of fitting in pets, what you should do if your pet has a seizure, and when it’s important to seek veterinary help. 


Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published September 2025 | Review date September 2028 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet

Symptom: Fits & Seizures

What are the signs of fitting or seizures in pets?

  • Becoming restless 

  • Staring vacantly into space 

  • Falling over and becoming stiff 

  • Shake, jerk or twitch 

  • Paddling their limbs 

  • Foam at the mouth or drool 

  • Lose consciousness 

  • Lose control of body function (urine and stool) 

Why is my pet having a seizure/fit?

  • Idiopathic Epilepsy (non-identifiable cause), most common cause, when all other causes have been explored 

  • Toxins exposure 

  • Head injury as result of bleeding or damage to the brain 

  • Birth disorder that can increase the risks of seizures 

DOs - My pet is fitting/seizing, what to do at home

  • Do clear the area of any hazard to avoid injuries 

  • Do protect his/her head 

  • Do time and record the event e.g. on your phone, if safe to do so, sharing this with your vet maybe helpful Do keep him/her cool to avoid overheating  

  • Do reduce stimuli (switch light off, or television) to minimise sensory input 

  • Give medications, such as use of rectal ampule during your pet fitting to stop fitting only if prescribed by your vet 

  • Do contact your vet for an appointment after your pet has come around, especially if this is the first time. 

DON’Ts - My pet is fitting/seizing, what not to do at home

  • Do not restrain your pet and allow the seizure to run its course 

  • Do not put anything in his/her mouth 

  • Do not offer food or water until your pet is fully conscious 

  • Do not shout, shake or hit 

  • Do not put your hands near his/her mouth to avoid involuntary bites 

When should I think about going to the vets?

If it's your pet's first seizure or if your pet is seizing even if already on medication for it, it's essential to seek veterinary attention to determine the cause and appropriate treatment plan.  

 Even if the seizure is brief and your pet seems to recover quickly, it's important to contact your vet for a check-up. 

My pet is having a fit. When is it an emergency?

Dog seizures lasting more than five minutes require emergency care. This condition can cause brain damage or overheating. Multiple seizures within 24 hours (cluster seizures) also need quick attention, even if each seizure is brief. 

Call us right away if your dog's seizure continues beyond five minutes or if they have more than one seizure in a day.