Dogs are great animals to keep as pets. A healthy dog makes a happy family, but sometimes illnesses can get in the way of you two having a great time. One condition which people report a lot is a seizure. Seizures are abnormal, uncontrolled disturbances in the electrical activity of the brain. The most obvious sign that your dog is having a seizure is the loss of consciousness and uncontrollable shaking. Other signs include foaming at the mouth and chewing of the tongue. Seizures and also known as a convulsion or fit, and when it is reoccurring, it is called epilepsy, a more dangerous form.
There are two main types of seizures: Generalized seizures and Focal seizures. Generalized seizures occur all over the body. It is characterized by loss of consciousness and convulsion. The abnormal activity occurs throughout the brain. Focal seizures occur when abnormal electrical activities affect only specific parts of the brain. In this case, only part of the dog’s body exhibits the symptoms. Seizures occur in three stages, that is, the pre-ictal, ictal, and post-ictal stages. The pre-ictal stage is where the dog feels uneasy. You may notice your dog whining, salivating, or shaking. At this point, the dog becomes nervous in anticipation of the attack. During the ictal stage, depending on the type the dog has, it may experience anything from mental unawareness to complete loss of consciousness. The last stage is the aftermath where the dog confusion, restlessness, and in some cases, temporary blindness. These episodes can last from seconds to hours.
Seizures have many different causes, which will be discussed later on in the article. What you feed your dog can play a role in controlling seizures. Let us take a look at some of the best dog food for seizures. Keep in mind that aside from being good for preventing seizures, these foods have other nutritional benefits.
The Best Dog Food for Seizures
Purina has a reputation for producing quality nutrition for pets. For over eighty years, they have built a brand that is rooted in the management of healthy nutrition for pets. Their goal is to help pets live healthy and active lives through proper dietary management. This goal translates into the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed dog food which contains necessary nutrients for pet growth.
The first fact to notice about this product is its hydrolyzed protein content. Hydrolyzed means that it is the proteins have been broken down into amino acids, making it easily digestible. The HA stands for hypoallergenic, which means that the ingredients are unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. Non-irritant carbohydrates also contribute to its hypoallergenic nature. The formula contains antioxidants that fight the effect of free radicals, agents that destroy the cell structure. This vegetarian formula contains a balanced diet that works for adult dogs and growing puppies. On top of these nutritional benefits, the meal has a great taste.
You may also like our Purina Pro Plan Dog Food Review.
Contains hydrolyzed protein
Contains antioxidants
Has hypoallergenic status
It is vegetarian
- Brand: Purina Veterinary Diets
- Weight: 25 pounds
The Zesty Paws Omega Bites is a product made to keep your pet healthy and happy. At Zesty Paws, only high standards and extensive research methods are used in manufacturing pet wellness products. They are results-oriented and have a passion for pet care. All their products are of high quality to meet your expectations.
The product contains mainly omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and (docosahexaenoic acid) which boost the immune system. These acids are derived from Alaskan fish oil and are in a chewable form for easy consumption. Also, the formula contains Biotin, Vitamin C, and E, which help in the rapid repair of cells. It is also beneficial in the healthy growth of skin and hair for your dog. The heart and joints are not left out when it comes to the benefits of these products. The meal helps in the production of lubrication in the joints for easy movement. Other ingredients that also play a role in keeping your pet healthy are zinc, cod liver oil, and coconut glycerin. These ingredients may be in little quantities but work together with the main ingredients for a positive result. The taste of this treat is irresistible and comes in different flavors for the enjoyment of your dog. It works for all breeds, ages, and sizes of dogs.
Contains rich omega-3 fatty acids
Contains DHA and EPA
Contains Biotin, Vitamin C and E
Sourced from Alaskan Fish oil
- Brand: Zesty Paws
- Model: 0856521007154
- Weight: 8 ounces
Royal Canin seeks to supply the needs of pets through dietary products. Their dedication to providing high quality and sustainable products for pets has existed for over eighty years. They are not backing down on their values and continue to provide nutritional value to pets and their owners.
In one container of the Royal Canin Canine Hypoallergenic Hydrolyzed Protein, you get soy protein that has been broken down into easily digestible amino acids. These amino acids play a role in building the immune system of your dog. The advantage of Soy is that it has cardiovascular benefits. There are also hypoallergenic properties to this product, making it safe for consumption. It also contains Omega-3 fatty acids essential for preventing inflammation. Dental benefits also come with the package. Essentially, your dog’s complete wellbeing is considered. This formula is well balanced and works exceptionally well for small dogs.
For more information on the brand, check out our Royal Canin Dog Food Review.
Has hypoallergenic properties
Contains hydrolyzed protein
Contains Omega-3 fatty acids
Sourced from Soy
- Brand: Royal Canin
- Model: FBA_476888
- Weight: 10 pounds
At Rachael Ray Nutrish, there is a team of pet parents that prioritize the health of pets. They believe that our pets should have the best of everything life has to offer. And so for over 85 years, they have delighted themselves in making only the best food for pets. These foods are rich in essential nutrients needed to a healthy animal.
Their Turkey, Brown rice, and Venison Recipe is top-notch when it comes to nutritional value. The main ingredient is lean, U.S. farm-raised turkey. The low-fat content makes it a healthy choice for your dog. It also has brown rice and peas in it, which are rich in fiber and highly digestible carbohydrates. It is the ultimate source of energy for your pet. The Venison is rich in Iron to help strengthen your dog. Also present are foods with antioxidant properties and are rich in Vitamin C and Potassium. The L-Carnitine in the formula supports healthy weight and metabolism in your dog. In addition to the main ingredients are Vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid, and pea protein, which play a role in building the immune system of your dog. The product is safe for your dog, in that it does not contain artificial flavors or preservatives. It is also free of poultry by-products, wheat or wheat gluten.
Check out our review of Rachael Ray Dog Food.
Rich in Iron
Made from lean meat with low fat
Has antioxidant properties
Contains Vitamin C and Potassium
- Brand: Rachael Ray Nutrish
- Model: 1878030015
- Weight: 5.5 pounds
Due to their high performance in pet nutrition, Zesty Paws is in the list again with the Zesty Bites Salmon Bites. This product forms a part of the track record of the brand’s consistency in delivering only the finest in nutrition to their customers. They make one of the best dog food for seizures.
This product, though different, is no less effective. The main ingredient is Alaskan Salmon Oil, which is rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. The DHAgold in the formula is sourced from algae, making it a healthier option. This nutrient provides nourishment for your dog. These acids work to improve the immune system of your dog. To support these acids are Vitamin C and E, which act as antioxidants and immune system support for your dog. The formula promotes brain and heart functioning, giving your dog an advantage. No matter the breed, size, or age, the meal serves everyone adequately. Chewy nature also makes it easy to consume.
Has anti-oxidant properties
Contains Omega-6 and Omega-3 Oils
Contains DHAgold
Sourced from Alaskan Salmon oil
- Brand: Zesty Paws
- Model: 0856521007420
- Weight: 9.6 ounces
Instinct Raw is a brand that prides itself in Making pet nutrition that is as natural as possible. Their foods are minimally processed and protein-packed. The little to no processing of their products is to preserve the integrity of every ingredient, thereby increasing the nutritional value. They do their part in improving the lives of pets by sticking to what nature has already provided.
The Instinct Raw Boost is grain-free with freeze-dried raw cage-free duck. It is a good diet for dogs with seizures because of its ingredients. The raw duck is the number one ingredient and is combined with high protein grain-free kibble and other essential ingredients. The kibble is formed by grinding up the food into pellet form for easy consumption. Grain-free food reduces the chances of allergies caused by grains like corn, wheat, and soy. The product does not contain any by-products or artificial colors or preservatives, which may compromise the health of your dog. The nutrients in this balanced meal are endless. They include calcium and phosphorous, which improve bone and teeth strength. Also present are probiotics and omegas that act as antioxidants and aid in boosting the immune system. This recipe works best for small dogs and comes in different flavors.
Take a look at our Nature’s Variety Dog Food Review.
Rich in Protein
Has antioxidant properties
Contains calcium and phosphorous
It is raw to preserve nutrients
- Brand: Instinct
- Model: 769949658351
- Weight: 4 pounds
Hill’s Prescription diet is passionate about improving lives to both pets and their owners. They believe that one’s happiness depends on the other and focus on improving pet lives. They also believe that a healthy dog makes life fun for you both and chip in by providing nutrition that reflects their goals. They liaise with Veterinarians to come up with lasting nutritional solutions for you and your pet.
Hill’s Prescription Diet Liver Care is perfect for restoring and maintaining liver function. One can contain L-Carnitine and L-Arginine which are involved in metabolism. The aid the liver in processing fat. The meal also contains Vitamin E and C, which prevent cell oxidization. The nutrients in the formula work together to reduce the workload on the liver so that it can produce protein.
Contains Vitamins
Has antioxidant properties
Contains L-Carnitine and L-Arginine
It is clinically formulated
- Brand: Hill’s Pet Nutrition
- Weight: 10 pounds
Blue Wilderness takes inspiration from the body make up of wolves and strives to make recipes that will improve dog growth to that standard. Their meals are made with protein-rich and grain-free ingredients. This brand is great for the dog owner who wants to unlock the wild side of their pet. No matter the size of your dog, Blue Wilderness has a recipe for you.
Blue Wilderness Nature’s Evolutionary Diet has chicken as its main ingredient. The chicken helps in building your dog’s body mass. The formula is also rich in protein and grain-free to reduce chances of allergies caused by grains. These ingredients are low in fat and help to maintain the weight of your dog as well. They are combined with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals needed to boost the immune system of your dog. Such nutrients include vitamins C and E, omega-3, omega-6, zinc, phosphorus, calcium, and L-Carnitine. The meal is well balanced and works best for adult dogs. It does not contain poultry by-products which may compromise the health of your dog.
Read here our detailed Blue Buffalo Dog Food Review.
Has antioxidant properties
Rich in Protein
Ingredients are low in fat
It is grain-free
- Brand: Blue Buffalo
- Model: 840243105137-P
- Weight: 24 pounds
Royal Canin is also on the list again due to its success in creating foods that have the best interest of dogs at heart. Their formulas are carefully curated with only helpful ingredients to cater to the nutrition needs of your pet. Each meal is Veterinary approved for consumption.
The Royal Canin Selected Protein PR is a formula that is not short of nutritional value. It has potato and rabbit as its main ingredients to help nourish your dog. The main purpose of this formula is to provide support in the management of severe food reactions like allergies. This adult formula provides the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. The rabbit provides proteins for tissue growth and maintenance while the potato contains carbohydrates to energize the dog. Other nutrients present are folic acid, Vitamin B1 and B2, and Vitamin C. These nutrients provide antioxidant benefits and boost the immune system of your dog.
Rich in protein
Rich in Carbohydrates
Has antioxidant properties
- Brand: Royal Canin
- Weight: 23.5 pounds
VetriScience laboratories is another Veterinary tried and tested brand focused on providing Veterinarians with products that are backed by science and research. All their products have gone through scientific processes to make sure that they are safe to use. They produce supplements in easy to consume forms, to cater to deficits in your pet’s nutrition. They also strive to set high standards when it comes to pet care. These make them one of the go-to brands for pet well-being.
The Vetri-DMG Liquid Formula is a supplement for improving immune system function. The formula also contains nutrients that aid in nerve and brain functions in your dog. A bonus in using this supplement is its ability to help the body deal with stress and muscle recovery. The supplement is also formulated to enhance circulation and oxygen utilization. The main ingredient is Dimethylglycine (DMG), which is derived from an amino acid. Its main function is to fight against diseases and normalize blood pressure and sugar levels. There are other ingredients present that are inactive because they do not interfere with the functioning of the main ingredient. However, these ingredients play a role in the absorption of the main ingredient. These inactive ingredients also keep the supplement stable so that it does not become ineffective. They include citric acid, glycerin, and potassium sorbate.
Has stress relief properties
Contains Dimethylglycine
- Brand: VetriScience Laboratories
- Model: 21354
- Weight: 12.8 ounces
Best Dog Food for Seizures: Buyer's Guide & FAQs
What to Look for in a Dog Food for Seizures
Organic/Natural Ingredients
The content of a meal can make or break it. When choosing a meal for your dog, make sure to choose one that is as natural and organic as possible. These types of ingredients are less processed, and so the nutrients are preserved. This choice reduces the chances of allergies and increases energy levels in your dog. The processed alternative may contain toxins that can compromise the health of your dog. It is also more likely to result in digestive disorders.
Animal Fats Content
Animal fats contain nutrients that improve neurological function. Choosing diets with these fats reduces the occurrence of seizures. For example, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids contain the right nutrients for healthy cell growth. On top of that, it gives dog food a great taste, making it a good choice.
No Grain
Grains are high in carbohydrates which convert into sugar quickly and may be harmful to your dog’s health. They do not have much nutritional value when it comes to preventing seizures. This is because of the difficulty to metabolize and absorb by the dog’s gut. Therefore, the nutrients are not extracted for use.
You may also like our review of Grain-Free Dog Food.
No Gluten
Gluten is a mixture of proteins that do not have essential nutrients for growth. Including gluten in your dog’s diet increases the chances of inflammation and digestive disorders. Also, Gluten triggers opioid receptors in the brain, thereby increasing the occurrence of seizures.
What Causes Epilepsy in Dogs
Epilepsy is a result of chronic seizures. It is a more dangerous form of seizure that arises from neurological defects. Some causes include the following;
- Idiopathic: This is when the underlying cause of epilepsy is not known. The phenomenon is common in young and middle-aged dogs and occurs repeatedly. The factors to be considered may be genetic and environmental. It is not easy to be diagnosed, and some diseases must be ruled out to detect.
- Structural: These causes include changes in the physical structure of the brain. Examples are brain malfunction, tumors, infections, and trauma. Metabolic disorders that lead to the deterioration of brain neurons are not left out.
- Reactive: These are those causes that result from a temporary response to stimuli. For example, metabolic changes or poisoning.
Canine Epilepsy Diet
Ketogenic Dog Diet
A Ketogenic diet for dogs is a meal that has a high fat to protein ratio. It is low in carbohydrates and is considered a healthier alternative for dogs. The Keto diet resembles a diet that the dog would have in nature, which puts it in a better position to live a healthier life. A keto diet is focused on Ketosis; that is, fat burning rather than carbohydrate burning. Carbohydrates are non-essential and inappropriate food for dogs, and their bodies have to compensate for it. When this happens, it takes a toll on their general health. The metabolism of fat triggers the production of ketones, which are in a readily available form for the brain to use. These ketones reduce neuron excitability and lessen the occurrence of seizures.
Raw Food Diet For Dogs with Seizures
Raw food diet is similar to the Ketogenic diet in that it is natural and high in protein. It also resembles a diet that your dog would have in a natural setting. The ingredients include meat, raw meaty bones, fat, and vegetables that have not undergone any processing whatsoever. A raw food diet has preserved nutrients and satisfies your dog’s natural need for protein.
Check out our review of Freeze-Dried Dog Food.
FAQs:
Q: What should I do if my dog is having a seizure?
A: The first thing to take note of is to remain calm when your dog is having a fit. Staying calm allows you to think clearly in the best interest of your dog. Once you can keep your composure, the following tips can help you take care of your dog during an episode:
- Do not move your dog unless the environment is dangerous. If you have to, drag him/her by the hind legs gently.
- Do not touch your dog’s head or keep your hand close to its mouth. During the fit, your dog may not be able to control itself, and the jaws might clench and bite you.
- Remove all dangerous items from the surroundings of your dog to prevent it from bumping into them.
- If your dog is out in the sun, provide some shade for it.
- Keep track of the duration of the episode.
After the seizure, be sure to take your dog to the vet to be assessed. You might want to know what is going on in your dog so you can be prepared for it.
Q: Is dog seizure treatable?
A: Ultimately, seizures cannot be cured. However, they can be controlled, and steps can be taken to lessen their occurrence.
Q: Can food be a trigger for seizures?
A: Foods that are high in sodium or salt can increase the chances of your dog getting seizures. Other than that, you would have to monitor your dog to see which foods they eat that cause them to seize. If you do not find any food to be causing their seizures, then you should examine environmental factors. You can keep a diary to journal your dog’s episodes so you can keep track of what triggers your dog and what does not.
Q: How can my vet diagnose epilepsy in my dog?
A: Since it is quite difficult to diagnose, a vet will have to check the dog’s medical history to rule out certain diseases. He/She will also be able to tell which disease might be triggering the seizures. Your Vet can also conduct blood tests to check for the levels of electrolytes like calcium and phosphorus. The Vet can also conduct a urine analysis to check the state of your dog’s liver. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis and diagnostic imaging of the brain can also help.
Q: Can dog seizures be prevented by a specific diet?
A: Some diets have been known to lessen the occurrence of seizures, for example, the Ketogenic diet. The low-carb diet has yielded positive results when it comes to dog seizures treatment. It is a highly recommended dog epilepsy diet. Keeping that in mind, every dog is different, and it might not work for every dog.
Our Top Pick
Seizures should be taken seriously as other illnesses. Though your dog may not be in pain, there may be some internal changes that will affect the quality of life of your dog. Though it cannot be cured, there are ways that you can reduce its occurrence. A healthy diet is one of those ways. When choosing dog food for epileptic dogs, you should pick one that contains essentials like protein and fatty oils. On top of our list is a meal that is tailored to cater to your dog’s nutritional needs. It is the best dog food for dogs with seizures for the right reason. This meal is rich in nutrients that support brain function and improve the general health of your dog. Keep in mind that a healthy dog is a happy dog, which makes you a happy dog owner.
Sources:
- Amelie Catala, Ph.D., Dog Alerting And/Or Responding To Epileptic Seizures: A Scoping Review, PLOS ONE
- Josep Brocal Ldo Vet MRCVS, Epileptic Seizures Triggered By Eating In Dogs, Wiley Online Library
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