The treatment for epilepsy in cats depends on whether your cat has idiopathic or acquired epilepsy.
If your cat has acquired epilepsy, your veterinarian will focus treatment on the underlying condition that is causing the seizures. Once the condition is cured, the seizures may disappear entirely! Things like tumors, trauma, and even high blood pressure can cause acquired (secondary) epilepsy, but all these conditions are generally treatable.
If your cat has idiopathic epilepsy — a seizure disorder with no identifiable cause — your veterinarian will focus on controlling the seizures. Often, vets choose Phenobarbital as the medication of choice. This drug is given twice daily to help slow down brain processes; it doesn’t cure epilepsy, but it can help control seizures. Side effects of Phenobarbital can include drowsiness, lethargy, and excessive thirst. There are other medications available if your cat doesn’t do well with Phenobarbital, but most cats tolerate the drug just fine.
When your cat is having a seizure, don’t try to hold or restrain your pet. Attempting to restrain a cat who is having a seizure can injure both you and your pet. Keep an eye on your cat during the seizure — make sure she doesn’t fall off the couch or down the stairs or risk other injuries. Try to stay calm, as upsetting as the sight may be. Once the seizure has passed, your kitty may want love, comforting, and cuddles.
After a seizure, watch for personality changes in the postictal phase. Your cat may act differently — a solitary kitty may seek company, for example. This phase may last a few hours or as long as two days after a seizure.
It’s important to bring your cat in to see the veterinarian periodically during treatment for a seizure disorder. Regular blood tests will monitor medication function and keep an eye on side effects.