Actually, the Chihuahua is a long-lived breed, often living up to 16 years and beyond! She will be disoriented, confused and may continue to be non-responsive to your voice and commands, but there are times when she may want to be held constantly until she returns to normal. The seizure itself can seem to last an eternity, but typically they only continue for 30 seconds to 5 minutes. Hypoglycaemia means low blood sugar, and this is what sometimes causes us to feel weak or shaky if we don’t eat at the usual time our bodies expect us to. Depending on what part of your dog’s brain is affected, your dog will have different symptoms. Hereditary (or idiopathic) epilepsy. Stay in contact with your vet regarding your Chihuahua's seizure frequency and her behavior during and after the episodes. By doing so, you can keep an eye out for any diseases or other problems which may affect a Chihuahua … Your Chihuahua might possibly continue to display odd behavior for several hours after having a seizure. Nov 26, 2014 ... Mini Spaniel had Seizure Problems A luxating patella, also known as patellar luxation, is the dislocation of the … The Chihuahua is the very smallest dog breed in the world, and these delicate and finely-boned little dogs require special accommodations to be made for their diminutive size in order to provide them with a good quality of life and keep them safe from harm. He doesn’t have any energy to do anything today either. It is unknown what exactly causes this diseaseto develop and why Chihuahuas are prone to it. Continuing our articles on senior chihuahua health we looked at some of the issues that our older chihuahuas will face and how to help them to have a happy full life. Unfortunately, seizures are one of the health concerns for Chihuahuas. Epilepsy is a type of seizure disorder that may result in very obvious grand mal seizures, or more subtle and easy to miss petit mal seizures, which usually pass within just a few seconds and often simply look as if the dog has zoned out for a short while. You might notice that she starts trembling -- more than normal for a Chihuahua -- and she appears to be short tempered, although her nipping and growling can be directed towards inanimate objects or nothing at all just as often as at people. Just as seizures are not … He or she will analyze your Chihuahua’s blood to assess his overall health, and take chest x-rays. Neuronal and seizure … However, as we alluded to earlier on, the amount of any poison or toxic substance required to cause harm to a dog depends in part on the dog’s size, so if your Chihuahua eats something they shouldn’t eat or is otherwise exposed to a toxin, they are likely to become sicker than a larger dog would. Hypoglycaemia is another health condition that is found more commonly within dogs of the Chihuahua breed than most others, and this pertains to the dog’s small size. UPDATED: Pets4Homes guidance and position on rehoming pets during COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. This can cause problems to the nervous system, resulting in seizures and even coma. Sadly, like people, getting older can make your chihuahua … Then leave your comments. Why do Chihuahuas and other small dogs shiver ?

Chihuahua Seizures Treatment There are lots of causes of seizures. Keep your Chihuahua away from children and other pets while she is experiencing an episode and speak to her in a calm voice. Chihuahua inter-variety coat mating now permitted by the Kennel Club, Some frequently asked questions about canine epilepsy. © Copyright - Pets4Homes.co.uk (2005 - 2021) - Pet Media Ltd, Five things that dog owners often misunderstand about seizures in dogs. Buying a puppy - The most important questions to ask the breeder, The top ten most popular registered dog breeds in the UK, Dog Pregnancy - A Week by Week Pregnancy Calendar, The five most important training commands to teach your dog, Cockapoo F1, F1b, F2 Generations Explained, Ten things you need to know about the Cavapoo dog – before you buy one, Lilac & tan Bulldog puppies now available, Stunning KC registered HEALTH TESTED STUD, Full pedigree Imperial karashishi shihtzu. Epilepsy is usually diagnosed when a Chihuahua has a pattern of recurring seizures with no apparent underlying cause such as diabetes or a brain tumor. However, like all dog breeds, Chihuahuas do have some common health issues. She won't be able to respond to you during this stage of the seizure and can lose control of her bladder and bowels. If your Chihuahua undergoes a seizure for the first time or if you have any other concerns about their health, your first port of call should of course be your vet. The reason is, even a mild case o… Read on to learn more about the most common causes of seizures in the Chihuahua dog breed. Simply put, it causes lesions to form that affect a dog’s ability to function. Right before a seizure begins you'll notice that your Chi may "zone out" and be unresponsive to your voice. If the epilepsy is the result of an illness, then it is called secondary epilepsy. Chihuahuas need to be fed little and often in order to maintain a healthy blood/sugar balance, and being late with a meal or providing the wrong quantity of food can all affect the levels of glucose in their blood. GME This a … … It's difficult to feel so helpless while your little one is seizing, but there are a few things that will help her and comfort you both. Holding her in a towel will keep her from hurting herself and will also prevent large messes if she loses control of her bladder or bowels. Each Chihuahua is as individual and unique as any one person. A hypoglycemic attack may happen without much warning. My 3 year old chihuahua … He does have a bad history of seizures. However, by having a good basic understanding of the most common causes of seizures in Chihuahuas, you will have a head start on monitoring and assessing the issue, and getting prompt help. Epilepsy is one of the better known hereditary health conditions that can be found within the Chihuahua breed, and this is perhaps the most common cause of seizures within dogs of the breed too. When … Copyright 2021 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. the book caring for chihuahuas made easy gives you preventative measures and solutions to common Chihuahua health problems. The Chihuahua Handbook; D. Caroline Coile, Vet Info: If Your Dog is Having a Seizure: What to do Next. This manifests in many different facets of day to day life with a Chihuahua and owners usually get used to the special care requirements of Chihuahuas naturally and quickly, such as walking slowly enough for the dog to keep up, choosing playmates carefully to avoid accidental harm to the dog, and providing the right balance of food and exercise. According to a health survey conducted in 2009 by the Chihuahua Club of America (CCA), Chihuahua breeders on average report having about two dogs affected by seizures. Here are some rather common Chihuahua health issues… However, the Chihuahua’s small size also means that there are other implications for their health and care too, and less margin for error when things go wrong. Epilepsy in dogs cannot be cured, but it can usually be managed effectively with the appropriate medications, which your vet will prescribe once they reach a diagnosis and begin to advise you on your dog’s future care. Hypoglycemia, which is a state of abnormally low blood sugar, is one of the most common Chihuahua health problems. Seizures, blindness, circling, paralysis, head tilt, and limb weakness ar… Have something to say? Common Chihuahua Health Problems. It’s in the Chihuahua’s genes, and there’s no medical explanation. Looking for free pet advice for your Dog? This AnimalWised article looks at the most common Chihuahua health issues. No part of a seizure is pleasant to witness. Although a goose honk cough is a clear sign of a collapsing trachea, your Chihuahua will need a thorough workup by your veterinarian. The Chihuahua is one of the most dynamic and misunderstood dog breeds in existence. Jensen attended Idaho and Boise State Universities. Regardless of the cause, it's difficult to watch your little one go through a seizure. Do you like this article? They’re sort of the ‘love em’ or hate em’’ dog which are adored by many, and … Don't put anything in or near her mouth, especially your fingers, and continue to comfort her and keep her quiet after the seizure has subsided. Common chihuahua health problems One of the major problems that affect Chihuahua’s is the Patella luxation, which basically means loose kneecaps also known as slipped stifles. She won't be able to stand and may begin kicking her legs in a swimming action. There are a number of hereditary Chihuahua health problems too that owners should be aware of, and some of these can result in the development of seizures in dogs that exhibit them. Take her to the vet immediately if she experiences consecutive seizures -- one after the other with little or no recovery time in between -- or if she has an episode that lasts longer than 5 minutes. Physical signs of hypoglycemia include weakness, collapse, and seizures. It is very serious and can quickly lead to death in only a few months. For instance, the vast majority of dog owners know that chocolate is toxic to dogs; but if a large dog ate a single square of chocolate, they are highly unlikely to come to any harm. Epilepsy is a type of seizure disorder that may result in very obvious grand mal seizures, or more subtle and easy to miss petit mal seizures, which usually pass within just a few seconds and often simply … January 23, 2020 at 10:57 am. Chest x-rays do not always show a collapsed trachea, but can help rule out other causes of breathing problems. Luxating Patella. Necrotizing meningoencephalitis is an inflammatory disease of the brain. As you know Chihuahuas are prone to seizures due to their body weight so to minimize the risk feed your Chihuahua in constant small meals rather than a large one at once, … Seeing any dog undergoing a seizure is naturally very frightening, but when it comes to a very small dog, this is even more likely to be the case. Your vet will put a treatment plan in place for your dog. She has an extended family of pets, including special needs animals. Whilst most Chihuahuas are healthy dogs, their small size and certain breed-specific health issues can cause seizures to occur, and in this article we will share some of the most common causes of seizures in the Chihuahua. In the event, the seizures or their post-ictal disorientation periods are especially severe. Hydrocephalus or fluid on the brain occurs more commonly in the Chihuahua than most other breeds, and is often associated with the large, dome-shaped skulls that they have. However, if there is no known cause then you may hear the vet refer to it as idiopathic epilepsy or primary epilepsy. Senior chihuahua health: Illnesses to watch out for. Generally, hydrocephalus in the Chihuahua will be diagnosed while the dog is still young, and it doesn’t always cause problems like seizures – but problems can develop later on in life, and so this is always something that is worth bearing in mind. This time before a seizure hits can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few days, and symptoms are sometimes so vague you may not even notice your Chihuahua is exhibiting them. While Chihuahuas have fewer genetic defects than many breeds (maybe because so many breeders try hard to eliminate problems), no breed is perfect. Hypoglycaemia can result in hypoglycaemic seizures, although these don’t tend to happen unless the dog’s blood/sugar balance is very off kilter. Alternatively, she may become restless and begin whining and pacing aimlessly. Idiopathic epilepsy, the most common cause of seizures in the dog, is an inherited disorder, but its exact cause is unknown. She began working in the fitness industry in 1987, and her experience includes editing and publishing a workout manual. When the worst part is finally over, there is still the aftermath to deal with. The following sections show you … Because the Chihuahua is so small, their blood/sugar balance is much more delicate and with less margin for error than it is in larger dogs, and more prone to falling out of whack. Long haired or shorthaired Chihuahua: which is right for you? A chihuahua who displays any seizure symptoms requires immediate care from a veterinarian. They are generally healthy with relatively few health problems. Your little Chi will probably drool and may develop a little foam around her mouth. Elle Di Jensen has been a writer and editor since 1990. "Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common cause of seizures … Contact your vet as a matter of urgency if you think your dog has been poisoned or eaten something toxic, even if they appear to be perfectly fine at the time. It can’t be cured but it can be controlled with medication. Unfortunately, seizures are one of the health concerns for Chihuahuas. Sometimes, a dog with low blood sugar level may show signs of lethargy, weakness, restlessness, and tremors. Once the actual seizure begins your Chihuahua may twitch and jerk about or her limbs might stiffen and appear to be paralyzed. Melissa Tope. An epileptic Chihuahua experiencing more than one seizure per month is likely to be put on a regimen of antiseizure … Unfortunately, they are one of the health concerns for Chihuahuas. Their breed makes them susceptible to genetic anomalies that Chihuahua owners should become familiar with. How much should you pay for a Cockapoo puppy? Idiopathic Epilepsy in the Chihuahua The 2009 Chihuahua Club of America health survey revealed an alarming number of “seizures of unknown origin”, technically referred to as Idiopathic Epilepsy. According to a health survey conducted in 2009 by the Chihuahua Club of America (CCA), Chihuahua breeders on average report having about two dogs affected by seizures. They can be hereditary or brought on by things like low blood sugar or neurological disorders and can begin suddenly after years of good health… 0 Items (877) ... Home » Dog Health » Seizures / Epilepsy » Baya, Chihuahua Dog Overcoming Seizures. A chihuahua can eliminate control of his bladder in a seizure … One breeder reported having 20 Chihuahuas from 30 litters that suffered seizures. Again, talk to your vet if you have any concerns or if you need advice on the best way to feed your Chihuahua. Treating a dog with a hypoglycemic attack takes quick action. My mom's long hair chihuahua suffers from terribly violent seizures about once a month. ... to eat or drink anything. Epilepsy is one of the better known hereditary health conditions that can be found within the Chihuahua breed, and this is perhaps the most common cause of seizures within dogs of the breed too. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications. A tiny dog like a Chihuahua, on the other hand, eating the same amount of chocolate might become quite ill, as their bodies are so much smaller and less able to process it. Restlessness, Wandering or Hiding Due to their small size and high energy levels, … Let's take a look. Whatever the cause, all seizures have distinct symptoms that begin before the seizure even starts. They can be hereditary or brought on by things like low blood sugar or neurological disorders and can begin suddenly after years of good health. Chihuahuas who are coming out of a seizure have been known to pace or wander aimlessly, so keep an eye on her and keep her away from the staircase. Some Chihuahua breed lines are prone to hereditary seizures that don’t originate from any particular health problem. Learn how this small Chihuahua dog having seizures was given a new lease on life with Natural Antioxidant support by NZYMES. Poisoning with many different toxins can result in seizures, and such symptoms usually develop quickly and are often quite acute. Chihuahuas are small enough to hold while they're going through the ordeal, so quickly wrap your Chi in a towel when her seizure begins, leaving her head exposed so she can breathe. Finally, poisoning or toxicity of many different types can result in seizures in dogs, and this is not exclusive to dogs of the Chihuahua breed. If you suspect your dog is suffering from this, rub a little … Chihuahua Health Problems: Seizures Part of the genetic problem with Chihuahuas is that they are especially prone to issues with their nervous system wiring. The most common reason for seizures in Chihuahuas is idiopathic. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a common condition in young, small-breed dogs, like your Chihuahua. While it is true there are certain health issues to which the Chihuahua are prone, they are also one of the longest-living dogs when cared for correctly. Symptoms include muscle weakness, staggering, listlessness and in extreme cases, seizures, coma and death. One breeder reported having 20 Chihuahuas from 30 litters that suffered seizures. Help us by answering a short survey. Tell us what features and improvements you would like to see on Pets4Homes. Hydrocephalus places pressure on the dog’s brain and can lead to seizures and a range of other symptoms, and the condition can be life-threatening for your dog if it is not promptly treated if it does place undue pressure on their brain and nerves. There are medical reasons for other … If your chihuahua is having regular seizures this is know as epilepsy. Other causes include liver disease, kidney failure, brain tumors, brain trauma, or toxins.

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