What should I do if my pet has a seizure?

Stay calm, move any objects away that could cause injury, record the start time and duration of the episode, and take a video if possible. Bring your pet to the vet or contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.

When is an MRI or CT scan necessary?

If the neurological examination raises concern about a structural problem in the brain or spinal cord — especially when symptoms are recurring or cannot be explained by blood tests alone — your vet may recommend advanced imaging to identify the cause.

What information should I bring to the appointment to help the vet?

Bring a record of when episodes occurred, how often, any possible triggers, recent changes in appetite and toilet habits, videos of walking and any seizure episodes, and your pet's current medication list. This information helps speed up the diagnostic process.

Can movement disorders be a medical emergency?

Yes — continuous seizures, collapse, or sudden inability to stand may be emergencies requiring immediate veterinary care. Milder or intermittent symptoms should still be assessed promptly at a clinic.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Movement Disorders in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care [2025]

Movement disorders encompass a range of abnormal movement patterns — including paroxysmal episodes, chorea, and breed-specific hereditary conditions.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

PetHealthMap Editorial Team

Sources: AVMA, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Sudden complete loss of consciousness with no apparent response
•Continuous or repeated generalized seizures that cannot be stopped
•Sudden hind-limb weakness or paralysis with inability to stand

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Noticeably unsteady gait but still able to walk short distances
•Intermittent focal seizures or limb tremors
•Decreased appetite and alertness but still responsive

01What symptoms suggest something is wrong?

Abnormal movement or altered consciousness in dogs and cats is a common presentation requiring prompt assessment to triage emergencies from conditions manageable in clinic.

Sudden collapse or brief loss of consciousness, falling to the ground
Generalised or focal seizures, rigid limbs, or involuntary muscle twitching
Unsteady gait, falling, stumbling, or veering to one side
Increased drooling, difficulty swallowing, or abnormal chewing
Significantly reduced activity, persistent weakness, or reluctance to walk
If any of the above are present, arrange a clinic visit as soon as possible

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness
⚠️ Continuous or frequent seizure episodes
⚠️ Sudden hindlimb paralysis or complete inability to move

02How can you assess the situation at home? Key things to monitor and when to go to the emergency clinic

Before visiting the vet, gather key information at home and record videos to help the vet assess the type and frequency of episodes.

Note the time of first onset, duration of each episode, and how often episodes occur
Film your pet walking and during an episode — one clip from the front and one from the side
Track daily changes in appetite, water intake, and body weight
Record urination and defecation frequency and note any abnormalities (e.g. incontinence)
Observe mental alertness and any changes in response to sounds or touch
If symptoms worsen or episodes become frequent, arrange a neurology or specialist appointment promptly

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

The vet will begin with a physical and neurological examination, then use blood tests and imaging to identify the cause and rule out metabolic or cardiac factors.

Full physical examination and neurological assessment to localise the dysfunction

Blood and biochemistry panel to rule out hypoglycaemia, electrolyte imbalances, or metabolic disorders

Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess whether collapse or sudden weakness is cardiac in origin

Advanced imaging (CT or MRI) to evaluate structural abnormalities of the brain or spinal cord

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collection or specialist neurological testing if indicated

Bring videos and written notes to the appointment to help guide advanced diagnostics

04What happens after diagnosis? Treatment, diet, and home care guide

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medication, supportive care, and long-term monitoring with regular follow-up appointments to assess response.

Targeted or specialist medication based on the diagnosed cause, with ongoing monitoring
Supportive care such as maintaining hydration and providing a calm, safe environment
Dietary adjustment or nutritional management as complementary support
Scheduled recheck appointments, imaging, or blood tests as directed by your vet
Referral to a veterinary neurologist or specialist hospital if needed
Your vet will discuss prognosis and adjust the ongoing care and follow-up plan accordingly

05What should you prepare before the appointment? Key information to help the vet make a faster assessment

Note down the time of onset, frequency of episodes, and any possible triggers

Bring recent videos — both seizure footage and walking clips from the front and side

Prepare a brief record of changes in appetite, water intake, and toilet habits

Bring the current medication list and copies of any previous test reports

Use a secure carrier and avoid sudden movements or unnecessary stimulation on the way to the clinic

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.

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