What is head pressing, and is it dangerous?

Head pressing refers to the behaviour of an animal persistently pushing its head against a wall or object, which may be accompanied by seizures or altered consciousness. There are many possible causes; if it occurs for the first time or alongside other symptoms, seek veterinary attention promptly.

What can I do at home during a seizure?

Keep the environment safe and record the timing and behaviour during the episode. Do not put your hands near the mouth. Film the episode as soon as possible and gather information for the vet. If the episode does not stop or is severe, go to an emergency clinic immediately.

What should I bring to the neurology appointment?

Bring video recordings with timestamps, a log of episode frequency and duration, a list of current medications and any recent dietary changes, and notes on any abnormal toileting behaviour or other symptoms.

What tests are needed to find the cause?

The vet will typically start with a neurological examination and blood tests, followed by imaging (CT or MRI) and cerebrospinal fluid analysis as needed. The management plan is then based on the results.

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

Head Pressing in Dogs & Cats: Seizure Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care [2025]

Head pressing — the repeated act of pushing the head against a wall or hard surface — is an abnormal behaviour that usually signals a serious neurological condition. Seek emergency veterinary care for a neurological assessment and imaging.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/17

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: IVETF, AVMA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate emergency care

•Seizure lasting more than five minutes without stopping
•Multiple consecutive seizures with prolonged loss of consciousness between episodes
•Breathing difficulty or blue-tinged lips during a seizure

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Confusion or reduced responsiveness after a seizure
•Persistent trembling or weakness following a single seizure
•Increasing seizure frequency or noticeable behavioral changes

01What signs indicate something is wrong?

Head pressing and seizures in pets can present in many ways, including involuntary muscle contractions, abnormal mouth movements, or brief changes in consciousness.

Whole-body or partial muscle spasms with involuntary limb jerking
Foaming at the mouth, jaw chomping, or repetitive chewing motions
Brief loss of consciousness, slowed responses, or vacant staring
Trembling, weakness, or prolonged drowsiness after an episode
If this is the first episode or episodes are frequent, see a vet as soon as possible

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ A seizure lasting more than five minutes with no sign of stopping
⚠️ Multiple rapid seizures with prolonged inability to regain full alertness
⚠️ Difficulty breathing or blue-tinged lips during or after a seizure

02How can I assess the situation myself? Home monitoring tips and when to go to the ER

When monitoring at home, prioritise safety first. Detailed records of each episode help the vet identify the underlying cause and choose the right treatment.

Track your pet's mental alertness and responsiveness before and after each episode
Weigh your pet daily and note any unusual changes in water intake
Watch for noticeable changes in appetite or the amount eaten
Record the timing, consistency, and any abnormalities in urination and defecation
Film any episodes on your phone and note the exact date and time of each recording
If symptoms worsen or frequency increases, schedule a clinic visit

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

The vet will begin with a thorough neurological examination, supported by blood tests and imaging, to identify the likely cause and determine the appropriate management.

Full physical examination and neurological assessment to localise the abnormality

Blood work and electrolyte panel to evaluate metabolic or internal-medicine causes

X-rays to rule out skull or thoraco-abdominal pathology

PCR and other tests to detect suspected infectious pathogens

CT or MRI for detailed imaging of brain structure and lesions

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis if inflammation or infection is suspected

Referral to a specialist hospital with MRI capability is recommended for further evaluation

04What treatment and aftercare are needed? Medications, diet adjustments, and home care

Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause and seizure frequency; hospitalisation may be required. Regular rechecks and imaging help assess how well the condition is controlled.

Short-term hospitalisation for monitoring and vital-sign support when needed
Follow the vet's schedule for rechecks and follow-up imaging or blood tests
Administer medications exactly as directed and report any side effects promptly
Adjust diet as advised and keep a log of food and water intake to aid monitoring
Minimise strong stimuli at home and track seizure frequency and duration
If seizures remain poorly controlled, early referral to a veterinary neurology specialist is recommended

05What should I prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help the vet identify the cause

List the date, frequency, and duration of every episode

Bring all video recordings of episodes and note the exact date and time each was filmed

Document recent changes in diet, water consumption, and body weight

Prepare a record of toileting habits, including any photos of abnormal output

Write down all current medications and supplements your pet is receiving

Book an appointment with a neurology or specialist clinic before you arrive

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.

Related Symptoms (You May Also Be Looking For)

Circling

Walking in circles

Head Pressing

Pressing head against objects

Pacing

Repetitive walking

Seizure

Convulsion