Witnessing your dog have a seizure is frightening enough—but if they’re also refusing to eat afterward, it raises even more concern. This combination of symptoms can indicate neurological problems or serious underlying disease.
We outline the common causes of a dog having seizures and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
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Dog Seizure and Not Eating — Why It Happens
When a dog has a seizure and refuses to eat afterward, it’s usually a sign that something deeper is going on. Causes can range from epilepsy and brain tumors to hypoglycemia, poisoning, or liver disease.
Some dogs are too disoriented to eat following a seizure episode, while others may feel nauseous or physically unable to coordinate feeding. In chronic conditions, appetite loss may persist as the disease progresses.
Common Causes of Dog Seizure and Not Eating
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is one of the most common causes of recurring seizures in dogs. It’s often idiopathic, meaning there’s no clear structural cause in the brain.
During a seizure, your dog’s muscles contract uncontrollably, and afterward, they enter a postictal phase—this can cause confusion, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
Some dogs recover within minutes, while others take hours. During this recovery time, they may not eat or drink, especially if they feel disoriented or anxious.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood sugar levels, or hypoglycemia, can cause seizures and a lack of appetite.
This is especially common in toy breeds, puppies, or diabetic dogs receiving insulin. If glucose levels drop too low, brain function is impaired, triggering seizures and weakness.
Afterward, your dog may seem lethargic, shaky, and unwilling to eat, which further complicates recovery and worsens blood sugar imbalance.
Read more: Dog Puking and Not Eating (What it could mean)
Toxins and Poisoning
Toxins such as xylitol (found in sugar-free gum), certain plants, or human medications can trigger seizures and stomach upset.
If your dog ingests a toxic substance, vomiting, drooling, and refusal to eat often follow. Neurological signs, like seizures, can appear shortly after exposure depending on the substance and dosage.
Even small amounts of certain toxins can cause life-threatening reactions.
Liver Disease
The liver plays a critical role in filtering toxins and maintaining healthy brain function.
When it begins to fail, toxins build up in the bloodstream, leading to a condition called hepatic encephalopathy. This can cause seizures, disorientation, and poor appetite.
Dogs with liver disease may also show vomiting, yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), and lethargy alongside reduced interest in food.
Brain Tumors
A brain tumor can put pressure on areas of the brain that control appetite and motor function.
This may lead to recurrent seizures and difficulty eating. Dogs might appear disoriented, circle compulsively, or become withdrawn.
Loss of appetite may be due to nausea, physical pain, or behavioral changes caused by the tumor.
Post-Seizure Recovery (Postictal Phase)
Not every dog that refuses food after a seizure has an underlying disease—sometimes, it’s part of the natural recovery.
The postictal phase can last from minutes to hours, during which your dog may appear dazed, sleepy, or confused.
This disorientation often leads to temporary appetite loss, especially if the dog is too tired or anxious to eat right away.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Having Seizures and Not Eating
Keep your dog in a calm, safe space after a seizure. Remove sharp objects or furniture they might bump into.
Allow them time to rest. Many dogs will sleep for hours post-seizure. Do not force food or water too soon—wait until they seem alert and stable.
Offer bland, easily digestible foods like boiled chicken or rice once they show interest. These foods are gentle on the stomach and often more appealing after illness.
Hydration is also key. Use a shallow bowl or syringe small amounts of water if your dog won’t drink, but only if they’re fully alert.
Monitor your dog’s behavior closely. If they don’t eat within 12–24 hours or have repeat seizures, contact your vet immediately.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If your dog has never had a seizure before, seek veterinary attention immediately—even if they appear to recover.
Seizures lasting longer than 3–5 minutes (status epilepticus) are emergencies. Prolonged seizures can cause brain damage or even be fatal.
Call your vet if:
Your dog has more than one seizure in 24 hours
Appetite loss lasts more than a day
They show signs of vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration
They appear confused, weak, or unresponsive
Diagnostic tests like bloodwork, urinalysis, and imaging (MRI/CT) may be needed to pinpoint the cause.
Read more: My Dog Is Throwing Up Saliva and Not Eating (What it means)
Key Takeaway
When a dog is having seizures and not eating, it could indicate anything from temporary postictal confusion to a serious medical issue like liver failure or a brain tumor.
Always observe carefully and give your dog time to recover—but if symptoms persist, don’t wait to seek veterinary advice.
With the right care and diagnosis, many dogs with seizure disorders can still live happy, healthy lives.