Epilepsy is the most common neurological condition in dogs. Effective management significantly improves quality of life, but seizures remain distressing for dogs and owners alike.
Epilepsy causes intermittent but significant welfare impacts. The seizure itself causes loss of consciousness and convulsions; the post-ictal phase causes anxiety and disorientation. Dogs with frequent seizures may develop anxiety between episodes. Anti-epileptic medication has side effects including increased appetite, sedation, and liver effects requiring monitoring. Welfare assessment in epileptic dogs must weigh seizure frequency and severity against medication side effects, and honestly evaluate quality of life. Dogs with well-controlled seizures can have excellent welfare; dogs with refractory epilepsy and frequent cluster events face ongoing welfare challenges.