![]() If your cat has more than two seizures within the first week of onset, your veterinarian will probably consider a diagnosis other than idiopathic epilepsy. The two most important factors in the diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy is the age at onset and the seizure pattern (type and frequency). Some cases of idiopathic epilepsy may be genetic in origin. Recovery following the seizure may be immediate, or it may take up to 24 hours. Behavior following the seizure, known as postictal (after seizure) behavior, includes confusion and disorientation, aimless wandering, compulsive behavior, blindness, pacing, increased thirst (polydipsia), and increased appetite (polyphagia). ![]() Generally, epileptic seizures are first seen in cats between one to four years of age. ![]() In addition, most cats recover from the after effects of the seizure by the time you take the cat to the veterinarian for examination. Seizures most often occur while the patient is resting or asleep, often at night or in early morning. These seizure activities generally last between 30 and 90 seconds. It may become stiff, chomp its jaw, salivate profusely, urinate, defecate, vocalize, and/or paddle with all four limbs. Once the seizure begins, the cat will fall on its side. When this occurs the cat may appear frightened and dazed, or it may hide or seek attention. Seizures in cats are usually preceded by a short aura (or focal onset). Epilepsy is more common in dogs than in cats. When this occurs for unknown reasons, it is referred to as idiopathic epilepsy. Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes the affected cat to have sudden, uncontrolled, recurring physical attacks, with or without loss of consciousness.
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