Medical management of recurrent seizures in dogs and cats

The problem of recurrent seizures is a common and challenging one in veterinary medical practice. The pathophysiology and pharmacologic suppression of focal seizure activity have been studied extensively in basic research settings, yet little is known of the genesis, modulation, and termination of generalized seizures, the most common form of seizures noted to occur in companion animals. Knowledge concerning the pharmacokinetic fate of anticonvulsant drugs currently used in veterinary medicine is adequate, though prospective clinical studies of the efficacy of these drugs in the treatment of various types of seizures are lacking. This study will review the available literature regarding the pharmacology, use, and side effects of anticonvulsant drugs currently available for control of recurrent seizures in companion animals. Alternative anticonvulsant drugs will also be described.