Tremors in dogs can be a frightening experience for dog owners. Tremors are involuntary muscle movements that can affect any part of the body. They can be caused by a variety of health conditions, some of which are more serious than others. In this article, we'll explore the top causes of tremors in dogs and the treatments available to help your pup feel better.
White Shaker Syndrome
One of the most common causes of tremors in dogs is white shaker syndrome. This condition is most often seen in small breeds of dogs, especially those with white fur. White shaker syndrome is thought to be an immune-mediated disorder that causes the body to attack its own nerves. Symptoms of white shaker syndrome can include full body tremors that can worsen with stress, activity or excitement.
Treatment for white shaker syndrome typically involves steroids and other immunosuppressive drugs such as prednisone.
Compost Ingestion and Toxicity
Another common cause of tremors in dogs is compost ingestion and toxicity. Compost can contain a variety of toxins that can be harmful to dogs, including bacteria, fungi, and pesticides. Symptoms of compost toxicity can include tremors, seizures, and muscle weakness.
Treatment for compost toxicity typically involves decontamination and supportive care. Decontamination includes making sure your dog does not ingest any more of the toxin and supportive care involves treating the symptoms.
Toxin Ingestion
Toxin ingestion is another common cause of tremors in dogs. Toxins that can cause tremors include marijuana, chocolate, and pesticides. Symptoms of toxin ingestion can include tremors and seizures but will vary depending on the exact toxin that has been ingested.
Treatment for toxin ingestion typically involves decontamination and supportive care. Activate charcoal may be used by your veterinarian to help bind and eliminate the toxin(s) from the gastrointestinal tract.
Episodic Head Tremors
Episodic head tremors are another common cause of tremors in dogs. Canine idiopathic head tremor syndrome (IHTS) is a condition in which a dog's head trembles uncontrollably and rhythmically, but it is not harmful. The tremors are self-limiting and usually stop on their own.
They are most common in Dobermans and bulldogs but the exact cause remains unknown. The tremors are not linked with other neurological problems or generalized seizure activity and treatment is necessary.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is another common cause of tremors in dogs. Symptoms of hypoglycemia can include tremors, weakness, and collapse. Hypoglycemia can be caused by insulin overdose (typically with the management of diabetes), xylitol toxicity and tumours of the pancreas.
Treatment for hypoglycemia typically involves intravenous glucose administration and close monitoring by your veterinarian.
Hepatic Encephalopathy
Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition that affects the liver and can cause tremors in dogs. The liver is responsible for removing toxins from the blood, so when it is not functioning properly, these toxins can build up and cause problems. The most common cause of hepatic encephalopathy is a portosystemic shunt.
A portosystemic shunt is a congenital condition in which the blood bypasses the liver and goes straight to the rest of the body. This can cause tremors, seizures, and other neurological problems.
Treatment for hepatic encephalopathy typically involves surgery to correct the portosystemic shunt medical management. Your dog may also require lifelong management with special diets and medications.
Hypocalcemia
Hypocalcemia, or low blood calcium, is another common cause of tremors in dogs. Symptoms of hypocalcemia can include tremors, muscle twitching, and seizures. Hypocalcemia can be caused by various conditions including kidney disease, certain cancers, and vitamin D toxicity.
Emergency treatment for hypocalcemia typically involves calcium administration and close monitoring by your veterinarian. Your dog may also require lifelong management with special diets and medications.
Tremors in dogs can be caused by a variety of things, including white shaker syndrome, compost ingestion, toxin ingestion, episodic head tremors, hypoglycemia, hepatic encephalopathy and hypocalcemia. Treatment for tremors will vary depending on the cause but may include decontamination and supportive care. If you think your dog may be tremoring, it is important to take them to your veterinarian for an examination.