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Seizures can be a symptom of several problems with your pet. In most cases with skunks the cause is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Vitamin, mineral, and other chemical imbalances, sometimes cause seizures, and epilepsy is also a possible cause.
If your skunk is having a seizure remain calm and give honey, corn syrup, maple syrup, etc., this will help calm the skunk and decrease the effects of the seizure. Do not put your fingers in the skunk's mouth, use a plastic or wooden spoon, or a cotton swab, to administer a few drops on the tongue or along the gums.
More information on seizures in animals.
This is a common problem for young skunks. Sometimes the vets mistake this for distemper or rabies. Hypoglycemic shock usually starts several hours after a low carbohydrate meal. Common signs of physical shock are apparent, weakness, glassy eyes, flesh is cold, etc.
In most cases it has to do with diet and nutrition. Get a blood test to check for low blood sugar or other problems, blood should be drawn several hours after a meal to help pinpoint an abnormally low blood glucose level.
Most skunks grow out of this. Keep treatment up until older, then gradually decrease feedings.
Another common problem which causes skunks to have seizures is also related to diet and nutrition - vitamin deficiencies, low mineral (calcium) levels, and lack of taurine or other amino acid compounds. In most cases no early signs of shock are noticed when these seizures occur.
The corrective measures for hypoglycemia are usually sufficient to prevent seizures of this type. A well balanced diet, frequent feedings, and added calcium and taurine will usually correct nutrition-related seizures.
Loud noises, flashing lights, and similar external triggers.
Physical problems like brain tumors, liver disease, kidney disease, worms or other parasites, head trauma, and infections.
Allergic reactions, reactions to vaccinations, bleach and other household chemical products, and some foods (asparagus) may cause seizures.
© 2005 Skunk Haven™ Skunk Rescue, Shelter, and Education, Inc.
Revised 04/01/05 (kw)
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