Seizures in Cats: What They Look Like, Causes and What to Do
Seeing your cat have a seizure is frightening. It can appear sudden and violent, and many owners panic. Knowing what a seizure looks like and what to do can make a big difference to your cat and to you.
What is a seizure?
A seizure is a burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It can cause involuntary movements, changes in awareness and unusual behavior. Seizures usually last a minute or two. Afterward, cats often seem confused, wobbly or unusually hungry, which is called the post-ictal phase and may last minutes to hours.
What it looks like
Cat seizures vary.
- Generalized (grand mal). The cat falls on its side, stiffens, paddles its legs, may lose control of urine or stool, drool and make noises.
- Focal seizures. Twitching of the face or a limb, lip smacking, chewing, drooling, staring or sudden odd behavior such as chasing an invisible object.
- Seizures with aura. A pre-seizure period of restlessness, hiding or clinginess.
Some seizures are subtle, so take video if you can, since it helps your vet.
What to do during a seizure
- Stay calm. Note the time the seizure begins.
- Keep your cat safe. Move furniture or other objects away. Do not pick the cat up unless it is in danger, such as near stairs.
- Never put your hand in its mouth. Cats do not swallow their tongues, and you may be bitten.
- Keep the room quiet and dim. Turn off noise and bright lights.
- Do not restrain the cat. Gently cushion the head with a soft towel if safe.
- Keep other pets away.
- Record a video, if it is safe.
- Call your vet once the seizure ends.
When it is an emergency
Go to an emergency vet immediately if:
- The seizure lasts more than five minutes
- Your cat has several seizures in a row, or in 24 hours
- It does not recover between seizures
- It has trouble breathing or its gums turn blue
- It may have eaten a poison. See cat poisoning what to do.
- It is a kitten or a senior with no history of seizures
See the emergency warning signs guide. Keep a cat first aid kit ready, and know where your nearest emergency vet is. Use the US vet directory.
Common causes
- Toxins. Insecticides such as permethrin dog products, certain plants, human medications and chemicals. See toxic houseplants for cats.
- Metabolic disease. Low blood sugar, liver disease, kidney disease or electrolyte imbalances. See diabetes in cats.
- Brain disease. Tumors, infections, inflammation or injuries.
- Infections. Toxoplasmosis, FIP or FeLV-related disease. See toxoplasmosis and cats and FeLV and FIV in cats.
- High blood pressure. Often linked with kidney disease or hyperthyroidism.
- Heart problems that cause fainting, which may look like seizures. See hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats.
- Epilepsy. Idiopathic epilepsy occurs in cats, but less often than in dogs, and is diagnosed after other causes are excluded.
Diagnosis
Your vet will take a history, perform a neurological exam and run blood, urine and blood pressure tests. Imaging, such as MRI, and spinal fluid analysis may be recommended. Bring notes on timing, triggers, medications, exposure to toxins and video.
Treatment
Treatment targets the cause, such as treating liver disease or removing a toxin. If seizures are frequent or severe, your vet may prescribe anti-seizure medication, such as phenobarbital or levetiracetam. Give medication exactly as directed, and never stop it suddenly. See how to give a cat a pill.
Living with a seizure-prone cat
- Keep a seizure diary with date, time, length and triggers.
- Keep medications on schedule.
- Make the home safe, with no unprotected heights or water hazards.
- Reduce stress, and keep routines steady.
- Have regular rechecks and blood tests.
Seizure diary
Record the date, time, duration, what the cat did, what happened before and how it recovered. Note any new medications, foods or chemicals. A diary and video help your vet decide whether tests or medication are needed, and whether treatment is working.
After the seizure
Your cat may be confused, wobbly, thirsty or very hungry for a while. Keep it in a quiet, safe room, and offer water. Do not offer food until it is steady, to avoid choking. Keep other pets away, and avoid loud noises.
Cost and follow-up
Tests and medication add up, so ask your vet which are essential first. Insurance can help. See cat pet insurance guide. Keep follow-up appointments, since blood levels of some drugs need monitoring over time.
When to see a vet
Any seizure needs a vet check. Contact your vet the same day, even if your cat seems normal afterward. See cat vet visit costs.
Frequently asked questions
Will my cat swallow its tongue?
No. Never put your fingers in the mouth of a seizing cat.
Is one seizure an emergency?
Call your vet right away. If it lasts over five minutes or repeats, go immediately.
Can cats have epilepsy?
Yes, though other causes are more common in cats.
Can seizures be treated?
Often yes, with treatment of the cause or anti-seizure medication.
Sources and further reading
Health information changes as research does. These organizations publish guidance worth reading alongside our articles.
- Cornell Feline Health CenterFeline health information from Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
- Cat Friendly Homes (AAFP and ISFM)Cat-specific care guidance and a finder for cat-friendly practices.
- Merck Veterinary Manual: cat ownersPlain-language veterinary reference written for owners.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.
This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.