
Dogs can have strokes, and they require immediate veterinary attention. The signs of a stroke in dogs include a sudden loss of balance or coordination, abnormal eye movements, weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, and loss of bladder or bowel control. The symptoms of a stroke depend on the area of the brain affected and the severity of the stroke.
Strokes in dogs are either ischemic (blocked blood vessel) or hemorrhagic (ruptured blood vessel). Underlying health conditions that can increase the risk of strokes in dogs include high blood pressure, blood clotting disorders, and underactive thyroid glands.
If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, act quickly and seek immediate veterinary care. Treatment for dog strokes focuses on addressing symptoms, providing supportive care, and managing any underlying health conditions. The prognosis for dogs that have suffered a stroke depends on the severity of the stroke, the presence of other health conditions, and how quickly treatment is started.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Loss of balance or coordination | Loss of balance, tilting head, walking in circles, leaning to one side, falling/listing to one side, stumbling, rolling to one side, inability to stand |
Eye movement | Abnormal eye movements, loss of blink reflexes, eyes darting from side to side, one eye staying still while the other moves |
Weakness | Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, misjudging steps, weakness on one side, involuntary shivering or shaking of the head |
Loss of bodily functions | Loss of bladder or bowel control, nausea or vomiting due to balance issues, loss of body control |
Behaviour | Abrupt changes in behaviour, disorientation, confusion, irritability, withdrawal, loss of housetraining |
Seizures | Loss of consciousness, convulsions |
Blindness | Acute blindness |
What You'll Learn
Loss of balance or coordination
Strokes can cause a loss of balance or coordination by damaging the brainstem and cerebellum, which are responsible for maintaining balance and coordination. This can lead to a head tilt, falling or rolling to one side, and an inability to stand. Your dog may also experience weakness on one side of the body, known as hemiparesis, and may step much higher than necessary when walking.
In addition to loss of balance or coordination, other signs of a stroke in dogs include abnormal eye movements, seizures, circling, behavioural changes, and loss of body control. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to seek immediate veterinary attention.
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Abnormal eye movements
Nystagmus is a condition characterised by rhythmic, involuntary eye movements. It can manifest as a rapid horizontal or rotatory twitch, or the eyes may be bouncing up and down in their sockets or moving rapidly back and forth without focusing. Nystagmus is nearly always caused by a problem in the vestibular system, which is located in the inner ear and brain and controls balance. It is often indicative of vestibular disease, which can be caused by an ear problem, a brain problem, trauma, certain medications, or congenital conditions. Vestibular disease can be peripheral, central, or idiopathic (occurring in older dogs with no known cause).
While nystagmus can be a sign of a stroke, it is more commonly associated with non-life-threatening conditions. However, if your dog exhibits abnormal eye movements, it is important to contact your veterinarian straight away, even if there are no other symptoms. Your veterinarian will be able to conduct a physical and neurological examination, as well as advanced imaging and bloodwork, to determine the underlying cause.
In addition to abnormal eye movements, other signs of a stroke in dogs may include:
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Head tilting or walking in circles
- 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 behaviour
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Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
Hemiplegia is caused by problems that affect your central nervous system (CNS), which comprises your brain and spinal cord. The two parts work in tandem, with nerves on opposite sides crossing over each other and switching sides in your brainstem. This is why conditions on one side of your brain often affect the opposite side of your body.
Hemiplegia may affect your face, arm, and leg on one side of your body in various ways. The paralysis may not be present or may not be as severe in all three body areas. In rare cases, hemiplegia can come and go, affecting one or both sides of the body.
Depending on the cause, hemiplegia can be temporary or permanent. Some causes are treatable or even reversible with immediate medical care.
If your dog is paralysed, it is a medical emergency. Take them to the vet immediately.
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Loss of bladder or bowel control
The signs of a stroke in dogs can be difficult to spot, and they can vary depending on the area of the brain affected. They may include:
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Head tilting or walking in circles
- Abnormal eye movements
- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Confusion or disorientation
- Abrupt changes in behaviour
If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, contact your vet immediately.
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Abrupt changes in behaviour
Strokes in dogs often occur without warning, and it can be challenging for owners to recognise the signs as they may be subtle. However, it is important to educate yourself on the signs of a stroke so that you can provide the best care for your pet.
Behavioural changes can include your dog seeming lost, withdrawn, irritable, or just not acting like themselves. They may also exhibit compulsive behaviours, such as head pressing against a wall or walking in circles. These changes can be indicative of a stroke and should not be ignored. If you notice any abrupt changes in your dog's behaviour, it is important to seek immediate veterinary attention.
In addition to behavioural changes, other signs of a stroke in dogs can include nausea or vomiting due to balance issues, loss of body control, unusual eye movements, weakness on one side of the body, and misjudging their steps. If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, act quickly and contact your veterinarian right away.
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Frequently asked questions
Dogs cannot tell us when they are feeling unwell, so it's important to look out for the following signs:
- Loss of balance/coordination
- Head tilting
- Abnormal eye movements
- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Confusion or disorientation
- Abrupt changes in behaviour
If you suspect your dog is having a stroke, you should seek immediate veterinary attention.
The prognosis for dogs that have suffered a stroke varies depending on the severity of the stroke, any underlying health conditions, and how quickly treatment is administered. Some dogs may experience a full recovery, while others may have permanent physical or neurological damage.