Is my dog having a stroke?
By: Laura Scharenbroich ZimmVet Daycare Professional
What is the difference between a heat stroke and a stroke? The underlying factor for a heat stroke is heat. However a stroke may be caused by an underlying problem.
What is a stroke
A stroke is loss of blood flow to parts of the brain that leads to neurological abnormalities.
There are two causes for strokes in dogs: an obstruction in blood vessels (ischemic strokes) which occurs due to blood clots, tumor cells, clumps of platelets, bacteria and parasites; and bleeds in the brain (hemorrhagic strokes). These result from the rupture of blood vessels or clotting disorders.
Symptoms of strokes in dogs:
- Inability to walk or walking with an uncoordinated gait
- Head tilt
- Abnormal eye movements, side to side or rotary
- Abnormal eye positioning
- Loss of consciousness
- Abnormal behavior
- Falling to one side
- Blindness
- Abnormal behavior
- Rapid onset of symptoms
The underlying diseases that can cause strokes in dogs include kidney disease, Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism), hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, bleeding disorders, hypothyroidism, cancer can lead to stroke.
Proper diagnosis is the most important part of treating strokes. A fainting spell that might look like a stroke can be caused by abnormal heart rhythm which can be life threatening. Your veterinarian can distinguish a stroke from a fainting spell by examining your dog’s heart functions to rule out a cardiac problem. Tests may include an ECG, chest X-rays, and possibly a cardiac ultrasound.
If the heart is normal, the brain will be examined by MRI or CAT scan. Your vet might also do more testing to look for underlying disease that could cause a blood clot, such as hormone testing, blood work, and urinalysis.
Strokes cannot be prevented. However they are associated with underlying diseases, routine check-ups with a veterinarian and screening blood work can identify potential causes that can be addressed.
