
Dogs can have strokes, though less frequently than humans. It can be difficult to tell if your dog has had a stroke, as signs can also indicate other health conditions. However, if you suspect your dog has had a stroke, it is important to seek immediate veterinary attention.
Strokes occur when there is a sudden interruption in blood supply to the brain, leading to tissue damage and neurologic abnormalities. There are two types of strokes: hemorrhagic strokes, caused by bleeding within the brain, and ischemic strokes, caused by a lack of blood supply to the brain.
Signs of a stroke in dogs include:
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Head tilting or walking in circles
- Abnormal eye movements or positioning
- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Confusion or disorientation
- Abrupt changes in behavior
- Loss of consciousness
- Rapid onset of symptoms
If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to your dog's recovery.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Loss of balance | Sudden loss of balance or coordination |
Head tilting | Head tilt or turn |
Abnormal eye movements | Abnormal eye movement or positioning |
Loss of bladder control | Loss of bladder or bowel control |
Loss of consciousness | Extreme tiredness |
Disorientation | Less awareness of surroundings |
Abrupt changes in behaviour | Abrupt changes in behaviour |
Walking in circles | Compulsively walking in circles |
Paralysis | Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body |
Difficulty walking or standing | Difficulty walking or standing |
Loss of vision | Blindness |
What You'll Learn
Loss of bladder control
Strokes in dogs are caused by a disruption to the blood flow to the brain, which can be due to a blood clot or bleeding within the brain. The symptoms of a stroke can vary depending on the area of the brain affected, but they often appear suddenly and can include loss of balance, abnormal eye movements, and changes in personality or behaviour.
In addition to loss of bladder control, other body systems may be affected, such as difficulty breathing. It is important to differentiate between a stroke and a stomach upset, as the duration and intensity of symptoms are typically greater in the case of a stroke. For example, a dog experiencing a stroke may constantly dry heave and seem unable to stop. Extreme tiredness or loss of consciousness can also be a symptom, and your dog may seem unable to respond to your spoken directions, moving in a directionless and disoriented manner.
While there is no specific treatment to repair damage to the brain following a stroke, your veterinarian will try to identify the underlying cause to prevent further strokes. Some dogs may make a full recovery, while others may suffer permanent damage. Physiotherapy can be helpful in the rehabilitation process.
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Abnormal eye movements
Strokes in dogs are relatively rare and can be difficult to spot. However, if you notice abnormal eye movements in your dog, it could be a sign that they are having or have had a stroke.
These abnormal eye movements are caused by the stroke impairing your dog's ability to control their eyes. The stroke can also affect their balance and coordination, leading to a sudden loss of balance, inability to stand, or leaning to one side.
If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical and can improve your dog's chances of recovery.
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Loss of balance
Strokes can also cause weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, leading to difficulty walking or standing. Dogs may also experience abnormal eye movements, such as side-to-side or rotary eye movements (nystagmus) or abnormal eye positioning (strabismus).
The severity and location of the stroke in the brain will determine the specific symptoms your dog exhibits. It is important to seek immediate veterinary attention if you suspect your dog is having a stroke, as prompt treatment improves the chances of recovery.
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Head tilting
A stroke can cause your dog to lose control of their bodily functions, such as loss of bladder control and inability to breathe. It can also cause extreme tiredness, which may be mistaken for sudden sleep. In the case of a stroke, your dog's brain sends incorrect signals to their body, causing them to move in a directionless fashion and seem unable to walk in a straight line.
If you notice your dog exhibiting any of these signs, it is important to seek immediate veterinary attention. While strokes in dogs are less debilitating than in humans, prompt veterinary care can help identify steps to reduce the chances of recurrence and improve your dog's recovery.
- Sudden loss of balance or coordination
- Compulsively walking in circles
- Abnormal eye movements or positioning
- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Confusion or disorientation
- Abrupt changes in behavior
- Loss of consciousness
Remember, some of these symptoms can also be indicative of other health conditions, so it is crucial to seek professional veterinary advice for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
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Abrupt changes in behaviour
Strokes can also cause seizures, resulting in a loss of consciousness and convulsions. Your dog may also seem confused or disoriented, walking in circles or moving in a directionless fashion.
If you notice any of these behavioural changes, contact your vet immediately.
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Frequently asked questions
Dogs can exhibit a variety of symptoms when having a stroke, including:
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Head tilting or walking in circles
- Abnormal eye movements
- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Confusion or disorientation
- Abrupt changes in behavior
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
If your dog has had multiple strokes, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. The treatment approach will focus on managing the underlying cause, minimizing further damage, and supporting your dog's recovery. Rehabilitation and physical therapy may be recommended to help your dog regain strength and mobility. It is also crucial to provide a safe environment, assist with mobility, and maintain a consistent routine during your dog's recovery.
To help prevent your dog from having another stroke, regular check-ups with your veterinarian are essential. Screening blood work can help identify potential causes, such as underlying diseases or conditions, that can be addressed to reduce the risk of future strokes. Staying on top of your dog's wellness as they age is crucial to their overall health and well-being.