If your old dog is vomiting and experiencing seizures, it’s more than just a minor health scare—it could be a sign of serious underlying issues.
Both vomiting and seizures are concerning on their own, but when they appear together, they may indicate a problem that requires immediate veterinary attention.
We outline the common causes of old dog vomiting and seizure episodes, what symptoms to look out for, and what steps to take to ensure your senior dog gets the right care.
Old dog vomiting and seizure: Why it happens
Old dog vomiting and seizure often occur together due to underlying health conditions that affect multiple body systems. Common causes include kidney or liver disease, which lead to toxin buildup in the bloodstream, triggering both vomiting and seizures.
Other potential reasons include brain tumors, infections, toxin exposure, or metabolic imbalances such as low blood sugar or electrolyte disturbances.
As dogs age, their organs and neurological systems become more vulnerable, making them more prone to these simultaneous symptoms.
Immediate veterinary evaluation is crucial to determine the cause and begin appropriate treatment.
Common Causes of Old Dog Vomiting and Seizure
There are multiple reasons why an old dog may vomit and experience seizures at the same time. Below are some of the most common causes:
1. Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is prevalent in older dogs and is a leading cause of old dog vomiting and seizure activity.
When the kidneys begin to fail, they can no longer effectively remove toxins from the bloodstream.
The buildup of waste products can lead to nausea, vomiting, and eventually, seizures due to uremic poisoning.
Other symptoms of kidney failure include increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and lethargy.
2. Liver Disease
Just like kidney issues, liver disease can cause both vomiting and seizures in senior dogs.
The liver plays a crucial role in detoxifying the blood, metabolizing nutrients, and regulating metabolism.
When the liver is compromised, toxins accumulate, potentially affecting the brain, a condition known as hepatic encephalopathy.
If your old dog is vomiting and having seizures along with signs like yellowing of the gums or eyes, confusion, or pacing, liver disease may be the cause.
Related: Old dog vomiting and shaking (Here’s why)
3. Brain Tumors
As dogs age, the risk of developing brain tumors increases.
A brain tumor can directly affect neurological function, resulting in seizures.
Simultaneously, it may also interfere with the dog’s ability to regulate appetite or digestion, leading to vomiting.
If your old dog is vomiting and having seizures repeatedly, and also seems confused or displays odd behavior (like circling or head pressing), a neurological examination is essential.
4. Toxicity or Poisoning
Older dogs are more vulnerable to toxins, whether from ingesting harmful substances or due to age-related decline in their body’s ability to filter out toxins.
Many toxic substances can cause both gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms.
Common household toxins such as chocolate, antifreeze, human medications, and even certain houseplants can cause your old dog to vomit and have seizures.
5. Hypoglycemia
A drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can lead to seizures, particularly in older dogs with diabetes or pancreatic disorders.
Low glucose levels deprive the brain of energy, leading to disorientation and seizures.
At the same time, the body may react with nausea or vomiting as it struggles to correct the imbalance.
If your old dog is vomiting and having seizures, especially if diabetic or on medications that affect insulin levels, hypoglycemia could be the culprit.
6. Electrolyte Imbalances
Electrolyte imbalances—particularly low sodium, calcium, or potassium levels—can result in vomiting and seizures.
Older dogs are at a higher risk, especially if they are on certain medications like diuretics or have underlying diseases affecting organ function.
Dehydration from vomiting can also worsen these imbalances, creating a dangerous feedback loop.
7. Infections
Severe infections such as meningitis, encephalitis, or systemic bacterial infections can cause inflammation in the brain, triggering seizures.
These same infections may also upset the stomach or cause nausea, leading to vomiting.
If your old dog is vomiting and seizing along with fever, weakness, or neck stiffness, a serious infection may be present.
8. Vestibular Disease
Old dog vestibular syndrome affects the inner ear and balance system.
While not always causing seizures, it can be mistaken for one due to symptoms like loss of balance, nausea, head tilting, and vomiting.
Some dogs may show seizure-like behavior during vestibular episodes.
This condition is common in senior dogs and while often benign, still requires a vet’s diagnosis to rule out more serious problems.
Related: Old dog diarrhea and vomiting (Causes and treatment)
Symptoms That May Accompany Vomiting and Seizures
When your old dog is vomiting and having seizures, there are often additional signs that help determine the cause. These may include:
Disorientation or confusion
Collapse or loss of consciousness
Loss of coordination
Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
Shaking or twitching
Staring into space
Changes in breathing or heart rate
Pale or yellow gums
Weakness or inability to stand
These signs should never be ignored and warrant prompt veterinary evaluation.
What to Do If Your Old Dog Is Vomiting and Having Seizures
If your old dog is vomiting and having seizures, follow these steps:
1. Stay calm and keep your dog safe.
During a seizure, ensure your dog is in a safe space—away from stairs or sharp objects.
Don’t try to restrain them. Make the environment as quiet and calm as possible.
2. Time the seizure.
Note how long the seizure lasts.
If it continues for more than 5 minutes or recurs frequently, it’s a medical emergency.
3. Avoid giving food or water immediately.
Post-seizure, your dog may be disoriented.
Wait until they’ve regained full consciousness before offering anything to eat or drink.
4. Keep a log of symptoms.
Document each episode, including time of day, duration, vomiting episodes, food intake, and any unusual behavior.
This can help your vet identify patterns or triggers.
5. Contact your veterinarian immediately.
Do not wait for symptoms to improve on their own.
Vomiting and seizures in older dogs can quickly become life-threatening if not treated.
6. Prepare for testing.
Your vet may recommend bloodwork, urinalysis, X-rays, ultrasounds, or even an MRI or CT scan depending on the suspected cause.
Be ready to provide a full medical history of your dog.
When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care
Seek immediate care if:
Your dog’s seizure lasts more than 5 minutes
Multiple seizures occur in a 24-hour period
Vomiting contains blood or has a foul odor
Your dog becomes unresponsive
Signs of extreme dehydration appear (sunken eyes, dry gums)
There is a history of toxin exposure
Senior dogs are more vulnerable to rapid health deterioration, so early intervention is crucial.
Key Takeaway
Old dog vomiting and seizure episodes are alarming, and rightly so.
These symptoms can point to underlying conditions ranging from organ failure and neurological diseases to toxicity and infection.
Understanding the potential causes and seeking veterinary attention early can improve the chances of recovery and comfort for your aging companion.
If your senior dog suddenly begins vomiting and seizing, don’t delay.
Monitor their behavior closely, keep them comfortable, and contact your vet immediately to uncover the root cause and begin treatment.
Prompt action could save your old dog’s life and offer them a better quality of life in their golden years.