How concerned should we be about dehydration in dogs? Can it cause neurological issues such as seizures? Thankfully, dehydration is an uncommon cause of seizures in dogs. The main situation in which vets observe dehydration and seizures together is heat stroke. However, in episodes of heat stroke, there are other severe internal or metabolic derangements that may be causing the seizures.
Seizures are caused by rapid and abnormal electrical firing in the brain, resulting in what is colloquially referred to as a “fit”. While epilepsy is one of the more common causes of seizures in dogs, there is a long list of other things that can trigger seizures.
Dehydration and Seizures in Dogs
Dehydration alone is a rare cause of seizures in dogs. Most vets would agree that if a dog is eating and drinking less, and becomes dehydrated, this is very unlikely to cause seizures. In theory, the elevated sodium levels that occur due to dehydration can cause changes in the brain that lead to seizures. In practice, however, dogs must be extremely dehydrated for this to occur, and most people have intervened or sought veterinary attention before the situation gets this bad.
One instance where dehydration and seizures occur together is heat stress or heatstroke. However, dogs suffering heatstroke also have a very high body temperature (hyperthermia) and can suffer organ failure; this is more likely to cause seizures than dehydration.
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My Dog Isn’t Drinking – Should I Be Worried About Seizures?
If your dog is drinking less than usual, you should seek veterinary attention. Reduced thirst is a sign of a number of diseases, including pain or discomfort, gastroenteritis, kidney disease, and many more. Reduced thirst is not characteristic of any one problem. However, you don’t need to be too concerned about dehydration causing your dog to have a seizure unless your dog is known to have a prior seizure disorder.
If your dog has had seizures before, due to a condition such as epilepsy, it’s worth being more alert to changes in their thirst and appetite. Any other diseases, stresses, or changes can lower the “seizure threshold”, leading to the recurrence of seizures.
What Are the Signs of Dehydration in Dogs?
Reduced thirst
Reduced appetite
Sunken eyes
Dry gums
Panting
Weakness/lethargy
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What Are the Signs of Seizures in Dogs?
Most people will know a generalized or grand mal seizure when they see one. However, partial seizures or petit mal seizures can also occur, and these can be less obvious.
Wobbliness
Collapse
Stiffness
Muscle spasm
Unresponsiveness
Foaming at the mouth
Loss of bladder/bowel control
What Triggers Seizures in Dogs?
There are numerous causes of seizures in dogs. One of the most common causes of seizures in dogs is epilepsy, also known as idiopathic epilepsy. The word “idiopathic” means that no cause has been identified. This is a congenital or hereditary seizure disorder that generally starts at a young age. Another relatively common cause of seizures is toxins; in other words, dogs eating something they shouldn’t. Chocolate, artificial sweeteners, snail bait, illicit drugs, and antifreeze can all cause seizures in dogs.
Finally, auto-immune diseases, infections, and tumors that affect the brain can lead to seizures.
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How Can I Get My Dog to Drink More?
As we mentioned, if your dog is not drinking, it’s always worth getting him or her checked by a veterinarian. A thorough physical examination and some basic diagnostic tests may explain why your dog’s thirst is reduced. If you do want your dog to drink more, consider these options:
Ensure water is fresh and clean
Add ice cubes to their water
Add water to their food
Praise them and offer treats when they drink
Place an additional water bowl in the house
Ensure they are getting sufficient exercise
Conclusion
There are many causes of both dehydration and seizures in dogs. In the vast majority of cases, dehydration will not cause seizures. However, extreme dehydration resulting in electrolyte imbalances, or severe heat stroke with organ failure, are two examples of dehydration and seizures occurring together.
When dogs are well, they will drink when they are thirsty. Many dogs that are unwell will drink less as a result of their malaise. If your dog is drinking less, eating less, or has displayed signs that resemble a seizure, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian.
Akitas are a gorgeous breed originally hailing from Japan. With their thick coat, sturdy stature, and loyalty, it’s no wonder people saved the breed when it was close to extinction. Akitas are as loyal as they come in the dog world but must be socialized well from an early age. They are large dogs, getting upwards of 100 pounds in many cases. Being a large breed dog, they are at risk for specific injuries and orthopedic conditions.
That’s not all the Akita can develop, however. If you’re looking at an Akita to own, you’re probably wondering what Akita health issues there are for you to know.
The 10 Akita Health Issues You Need to Know
1. Cancer
Unfortunately, cancer comes in many forms and affects all dogs. Akitas may be a little more prone to some types of cancer. Your veterinarian will examine your dog from nose to tail each time you come in for a visit. That said, if you notice a new bump on your dog, it can be beneficial to note it to your vet. (If your dog will tolerate it, trimming the hair over the lump with clippers can help you and your veterinary team find the mass during your visit.)
Osteosarcoma tends to affect medium and large-breed dogs, with Akitas among those. It is bone cancer. One common saying among veterinarians is that you’ll typically find it affecting a bone “away from the elbow or towards the knee.” Some dogs show signs of pain and limping, while others may present with a pathologic fracture of the affected bone.
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2. Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury
The knee (also known as the stifle joint in pets) has several structures that help stabilize it. The cranial cruciate ligament and caudal cruciate ligament form a rough “X” within the knee joint. Like many large breed dogs, Akitas have straighter legs and are at risk for the front or cranial ligament to tear.
You can compare this injury to an ACL injury in a person. It’s painful and debilitating. Most large dogs need surgery to correct the tear. Your veterinarian will usually prescribe anti-inflammatory medications like carprofen and recommend strict cage rest to allow your pet to heal. Sometimes, a leg brace can also help your dog.
3. Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is one of the joint abnormalities that your Akita could be affected by. There is a deformity of the hip’s ball and socket joint, where the socket is irregular rather than smooth, or the hip doesn’t have enough coverage over the head of the femur. There is a genetic risk associated with hip dysplasia, so many dog breeders have screening X-rays taken of their dogs’ hips before breeding.
Dogs can be affected by hip dysplasia from a young age. However, many only have issues once they’re older and develop signs associated with arthritis.
Your veterinarian will generally use pain medications, including:
Carprofen (Rimadyl)
Meloxicam (Metacam)
Grapiprant (Galliprant)
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4. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
Surgery is sometimes an option, where your dog may have a procedure such as a total hip replacement. You’ll also want to keep your dog lean because being overweight can increase their risk for joint problems. (Fat cells or adipocytes also release hormones that can increase inflammation.)
Gastric dilatation volvulus is also known as GDV or, even more commonly, bloat. With bloat, the stomach fills with gas and twists, hence the dilatation and volvulus parts of the condition’s name. This condition is typically diagnosed with X-rays.
We tend to think of bloat affecting Great Danes, but it typically occurs in any deep-chested dog, including Akitas. When the stomach twists, it can cut off the blood supply to the stomach and spleen. It is a surgical emergency and is life-threatening.
5. Hypothyroidism
Thyroid issues can cause a lot of changes in our dogs.
Hypothyroidism or low thyroid function can cause your dog to show changes such as:
Hair thinning
Dry coat and skin
Weight gain
Lethargy
Behavior changes
The behavior changes you can see with hypothyroidism can include aggression. Some dogs start picking fights with other dogs in the house. They can also become fearful and withdrawn.
Hypothyroidism is diagnosed with a blood test. Your veterinarian may recommend checking your pet if they’re suspicious your dog is hypothyroid. Still, many veterinary hospitals check it as part of routine blood work, especially with senior dogs.
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6. Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis is a condition that Akitas appear to be predisposed to developing. There’s an inherited firm and an acquired form, with the immune-mediated acquired form typically affecting Akita dogs. Nerves and muscles do not communicate effectively with this condition, so affected dogs may have weakness.
Dogs with myasthenia gravis can develop megaesophagus, where the esophagus dilates, and dogs can’t swallow correctly. There are some treatment options, such as with anti-acetylcholinesterase medications. Dogs with megaesophagus may have to eat out of elevated bowls or in a unique gadget that helps them eat with a reduced risk of aspirating if they regurgitate.
Other signs of myasthenia gravis include:
Barking changes
Drooling
Heavier breathing
Decreased blink reflexes
7. Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy is a genetic eye condition. While affected dogs are generally born with the ability to see, over time, their retina degenerates, and they go blind. If your dog is affected, you might initially see that they have terrible seeing in low-light conditions. Your veterinarian might notice that your dog’s pupils are dilated during an exam when they should constrict in response to light.
There is no cure for PRA. Veterinarians can perform testing to help diagnose your dog with the condition.
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8. Sebaceous Adenitis
Akitas are more at risk for developing sebaceous adenitis than many other breeds. This relatively uncommon condition is an autoimmune disease where inflammation targets the sebaceous glands in the skin.
Other signs of sebaceous adenitis include:
Dull hair
Brittle hair that breaks easily
Symmetrical hair loss on either side of the body
Deep-seated skin infections in the hair follicles
Pups affected with sebaceous adenitis may need antibiotics to control bacterial skin infections. However, they should only be used when needed. Your veterinarian may use medications like Atopica (cyclosporine).
Topical therapies are vital to treating and controlling signs associated with sebaceous adenitis. Shampoos and mousses that get massaged into the skin are your best bet, although some people use sprays to treat the skin. (These medications could be less effective because Akitas have a thick, dense hair coat.) Giving your dog fatty acid supplements can also help strengthen their skin barrier.
9. Von Willebrand Disease
Several clotting factors and proteins are essential to help stop bleeding in pets and people. Some dogs, such as Akitas, are at a higher risk for having lower amounts of one protein, von Willebrand factor protein. Without an adequate amount of this protein, they’re at a higher risk of having uncontrollable bleeding after an injury or surgery.
There are laboratory tests that can help diagnose bleeding abnormalities. Some genetic tests will evaluate dogs to see if they may be at risk for von Willebrand disease. There isn’t a cure, but for surgical procedures or if your dog is injured, your veterinarian can administer blood and plasma products to help control bleeding. You should not breed an affected dog since the condition has a genetic component.
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10. Zinc Responsive Dermatosis
Akitas can be at risk for Zinc Responsive Dermatosis. There are several forms of this condition, where either pets cannot absorb enough zinc from their diet, or their diet is unbalanced and doesn’t contain enough bioavailable zinc. Not having enough zinc can cause skin issues and immune system problems.
Affected dogs may have crusting around their eyes and mouth, most commonly in areas where the skin meets mucous membranes. Their coats are usually dry and lackluster. Your vet may need to run tests such as a skin biopsy to diagnose Zinc Responsive Dermatosis. If the diet doesn’t have appropriate amounts of zinc, you could switch the food, but if they’re having issues absorbing it from their food, you’ll need to give your dog a high-quality zinc supplement, usually for life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do Akitas live?
According to the American Kennel Club, Akitas typically have a lifespan of 10 to 14 years. Some conditions, such as bloat, can occur suddenly and be life-threatening. The good news is that with proper preventative care and nutrition, your Akita has the potential to live a long and happy life with you.
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Are Akitas overall healthy dogs?
Akitas are a generally healthy dog breed, but they are at risk for certain conditions. Simple screening tests can help minimize the chance of issues in future generations, from hip X-rays to a DNA cheek swab, to see if your dog carries gene mutations that may be associated with von Willebrand Disease.
Conclusion
Akitas are amazing dogs, but like any breed, they’re at risk for developing certain health conditions. Your veterinarian will help you manage these diseases and problems but preventing them through responsible breeding and genetic screening are the best ways to promote a healthy breed.
Lots of owners are curious about using laser declawing methods to remove their cat’s claws. Are you one of these owners and would you like to know why it is advised against? Read on to hear the low down on laser declawing from a professional.
What Is Declawing?
Declawing (officially known as onychectomy) is a procedure where the end of the digit on a cat’s paw is removed. It can be carried out by amputation of a section of the digit, or by removing the whole of the last toe bone. Usually, the declawing methods described involve amputation of the end of the toe from the first joint after the nail bed. This is called disarticulation.
The reason behind this surgery can be for medical reasons such as the presence of chronic infection or a tumor. Shockingly, a common reason is because the owner has requested it to be done as they dislike their cat scratching things.
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What Is Laser Declawing?
Laser declawing is a permanent way of removing cats’ claws and ensuring they don’t grow back. Laser declawing involves the use of a medical-grade CO2 laser to cut the digit at the first joint up from the nail bed. Alternative methods of declawing involve using a sharp scalpel blade to intersect the toe at the first joint, or bone cutters or nail trimmers to cut through the toe at the joint. With this last method, proper dislocation often does not occur, and bone fragments can be left behind which can be incredibly painful for the cat.
An alternative surgical option is an operation called a Deep Digital Flexor Tendonectomy. The tendons of the deep digital flexor are cut, and this prevents the cat from retracting its claws back into the nail sheath. Here, the cat’s nails remain intact, however, the cat is unable to scratch anything. This means that the cat’s nails will grow rapidly without any of the usual wear and tear they would experience if the cat was allowed to scratch. Therefore, the cat’s nails all need trimming regularly to prevent them from growing into the pads. This is also a controversial surgery with ethical issues.
Why Do Owners Want to Declaw Their Cats?
Cats scratch with their claws and scratching is part of their normal day-to-day behavior. They scratch to defend themselves and to mark their territory. When they scratch, they deposit important chemical messengers called pheromones. Pheromones give other cats vital bits of information. Cats use pheromones as a mark of their territory to ensure they feel safe and secure.
Some cats scratch their owners or other animals and break the skin or cause considerable damage. Domesticated cats often find objects or furniture around the house to scratch as they cannot do what they would usually do in the outside world. Owners are often frustrated if cats start to scratch carpets or sofas and leave marks or rip them. Some owners request that the claws be removed from their cats to prevent them from scratching things in the house or themselves or other animals.
Some people argue that if cats are going to scratch humans and destroy furniture, declawing is a good idea as they believe it will reduce the number of cats that are rehomed or euthanized.
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Why We Advise Against Laser Declawing
Declawing, regardless of the method used, is the equivalent of cutting the tip of the finger off at the level of the first knuckle. When put like this, it is understandable that most vets think it is barbaric and a form of mutilation.
International Cat Care states that they consider “declawing to be an act of mutilation and unethical for anything other than genuine therapeutic medical reasons.” Declawing cats involves the amputation of part of their digit, it is a major operation that often causes behavioral changes, altered gait, and long-term pain. All surgical procedures come with potential risks, however, it is difficult to justify the risks if the surgery is solely for the convenience of the owner.
Laser declawing comes with its own unique set of risks too:
There is a risk of infection after the operation.
The laser can burn the end of the bone, and this leads to inflammation and pain.
Bone fragments can be left behind which can cause lameness, chronic pain, and gait abnormalities.
Cats have to relearn how to walk as their balance is affected.
If the cat alters its gait when walking, this in turn affects the other limbs and the back.
Other reasons against laser declawing include:
Cats that have had their claws removed still experience the urge to scratch. They are left with an instinct that they can’t act upon which is extremely cruel.
If the cat’s claws are removed, they are unable to defend themselves if they have any unwanted encounters with other cats or predators; they have one less weapon in their arsenal and are more likely to become injured.
Cats use their claws to climb up and down tall things such as trees and fences. If their claws have been removed, they are unable to do this safely and are more vulnerable to injuries.
It has been suggested that if cats are experiencing chronic discomfort and pain after they have been declawed, this can lead to unwanted behavioral changes such as inappropriate elimination and unprovoked aggression.
In many countries, declawing cats is already banned or heavily frowned upon for anything other than a medical reason decided by a vet.
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Is Laser Declawing Better Than Other Declawing Methods?
Some owners think that laser declawing is a more humane way of removing the claws. They believe that there is potentially less trauma using lasers as the nerve endings get sealed off which means it is less painful and there is usually less blood loss. There are some studies stating that cats that had been declawed using the laser method experienced less pain initially (in the first 48 hours after the procedure), however, all methods of declawing were proven to be painful. Less pain in one scenario compared to another extremely painful scenario does not justify the first scenario.
These studies also stated that pain levels were the same regardless of the method of declawing used 6 days post-operation. The findings from these studies may help vets if they have a case that requires a digit amputation for a medical reason, it does not justify the declawing procedure for the owner’s convenience.
Conclusion
Laser declawing is a painful procedure that has short and long-term effects on the cat’s quality of life. If there is a medical reason for the removal of the claw, the risks of surgery vs. the benefits of the removal should be discussed with your vet. Cats suffer without their claws as they use them in many different ways in their day-to-day life.
It is very difficult to justify the removal of claws just so that it is more convenient for owners of cats, therefore we strongly advise against it.
