Canine epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders in dogs. For dogs with seizures, managing this condition requires more than just medication—it calls for a holistic approach that considers dietary and environmental factors. Recent research has brought attention to the role of trace elements—tiny but essential minerals—in the development and management of epilepsy in dogs.
This blog explores what trace elements are, how they impact dog health, and how imbalances in these minerals can influence canine epilepsy. We’ll also cover how anti-seizure medications affect trace element levels, how to test for deficiencies, and practical steps you can take to support your dog’s health.
What Are Trace Elements and Why Are They Important for Dog Health?
Trace elements are minerals found in small amounts in the body, but they play critical roles in maintaining overall health. For dogs with epilepsy, they are particularly important because they influence:
Brain Function: Supporting neurotransmitter activity and nerve insulation (myelination).
Cellular Energy Production: Enabling mitochondrial processes to generate ATP.
Oxidative Stress Protection: Acting as antioxidants to protect brain cells from damage.
Examples of key trace elements include phosphorus, copper, zinc, selenium, and manganese. While these elements are essential for dog health, both deficiencies and excesses can disrupt brain function and contribute to seizures.
How Do Trace Elements Affect Canine Epilepsy?
Recent research analysed hair samples from 63 dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (IE) and 42 healthy dogs to determine if trace element imbalances were linked to epilepsy. Another study measured serum concentrations of trace nutrients in 92 epileptic dogs compared to 50 healthy controls, dividing the epileptic dogs into untreated, controlled, and uncontrolled groups. Together, these studies provide a clearer picture of how trace elements impact epilepsy in dogs.
Key Findings from the Research
Phosphorus: Lower in Epileptic Dogs
Phosphorus is essential for producing energy in the brain, as it’s a key component of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
Finding: Dogs with IE had significantly lower phosphorus levels compared to healthy dogs, which may reduce energy production in the brain and contribute to seizures.
Copper: Higher in Treated Dogs
Copper is necessary for nerve function and neurotransmitter production, but in excess, it can cause oxidative stress, damaging brain cells.
Finding: Treated epileptic dogs showed higher copper levels than healthy dogs or untreated epileptic dogs, likely due to anti-seizure medications like phenobarbital, which increase copper-binding protein production in the liver.
Zinc: Higher in Treated and Uncontrolled Dogs
Zinc plays a dual role in the brain, acting as an anticonvulsant in appropriate amounts but becoming neurotoxic in excess.
Finding: Treated epileptic dogs had higher zinc levels than healthy dogs. Additionally, uncontrolled epileptic dogs showed significantly higher zinc levels than untreated or controlled epileptic dogs, suggesting a potential link to seizure severity.
Selenium: Higher in Epileptic Dogs
Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that protects brain cells from oxidative damage.
Finding: Selenium levels were significantly higher in both treated and untreated epileptic dogs compared to healthy dogs. This differs from human studies, where selenium deficiency is more commonly associated with epilepsy.
Manganese: Elevated in Uncontrolled Dogs
Manganese is vital for enzymatic and mitochondrial functions but can become neurotoxic in excess.
Finding: Uncontrolled epileptic dogs had significantly higher manganese levels than healthy dogs. This may be linked to poor seizure control or a neuroprotective response to seizures.
Arsenic: Elevated in Dogs Treated with Potassium Bromide (KBr)
Arsenic is toxic and disrupts neurological function.
Finding: Dogs treated with potassium bromide had arsenic levels 24 times higher than those treated with other medications and 36 times higher than healthy dogs. This suggests that certain medications can affect arsenic metabolism.
How Can You Get Your Dog Tested for Trace Element Deficiencies?
If you suspect that trace element imbalances are affecting your dog’s health or seizures, testing can provide valuable insights. Common testing methods include:
Hair Analysis: This method provides a long-term view of your dog’s trace element levels, as minerals accumulate in hair over months. A small sample from the neck area is sent to a laboratory for testing.
Blood Tests: Blood testing offers a snapshot of current trace element levels but can fluctuate based on diet and other factors. It is often used alongside hair analysis for a more complete picture.
Specialised Panels: Some veterinary labs offer comprehensive trace element testing, which evaluates levels of phosphorus, copper, selenium, zinc, manganese, and more.
Talk to your veterinarian about whether trace element testing is appropriate for your dog. These tests are particularly helpful for dogs on anti-seizure medications or those with unexplained seizures. Testing results can guide dietary adjustments, supplements, or medication changes to optimise your dog’s health.
How Do Diet and Medications Affect Trace Element Levels?
Anti-Seizure Medications
Anti-seizure drugs are essential for managing epilepsy but can significantly alter trace element metabolism:
Phenobarbital: Linked to higher copper levels due to its effects on liver enzymes.
Potassium Bromide: Associated with elevated arsenic levels in treated dogs.
Diet’s Role in Trace Element Status
Dogs typically consume commercial diets, which are designed to meet nutritional requirements. However:
Excess Selenium and Zinc: Some commercial foods may provide higher levels of these elements, which can contribute to imbalances.
Balanced Diets: Dogs eating a high-quality commercial diet are unlikely to experience severe deficiencies but may still benefit from monitoring trace element levels.
What Does This Mean for Dogs with Seizures?
The studies discussed highlight that trace elements are not just bystanders—they may actively influence epilepsy in dogs. For example:
Elevated zinc and manganese levels in uncontrolled epileptic dogs may worsen seizure control or reflect the body’s response to seizures.
Anti-seizure medications like phenobarbital can significantly affect copper and molybdenum levels, underscoring the need for regular monitoring.
Supporting Dogs with Epilepsy
To optimise your dog’s health and seizure management, consider these steps:
Work with Your Vet: Discuss trace element testing if your dog is on anti-seizure medications or experiencing unexplained seizures.
Choose a Balanced Diet: Ensure your dog’s diet meets nutritional guidelines and avoid over-supplementing trace elements without veterinary advice.
Monitor Symptoms: Track seizure activity and note any changes in behaviour, which may indicate imbalances or medication side effects.
Conclusion: Trace Elements and Canine Epilepsy: How Minerals Like Copper, Zinc, and Selenium Impact Dogs with Seizures
Understanding the role of trace elements in canine epilepsy provides valuable insights into managing this complex condition. Testing for trace element imbalances and addressing them through diet or medical adjustments can complement traditional epilepsy treatments, improving outcomes for dogs with seizures.
By staying informed and working closely with your veterinarian, you can take proactive steps to support your dog’s health and improve their quality of life.
Slug: trace-elements-and-canine-epilepsyMeta Description: Discover how trace elements like zinc, copper, and selenium impact canine epilepsy. Learn how to test for deficiencies, manage diet, and optimise care for dogs with seizures.
References
Vitale, S., Hague, D. W., Foss, K., de Godoy, M. C., & Selmic, L. E. (2019). Comparison of Serum Trace Nutrient Concentrations in Epileptics Compared to Healthy Dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 6. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2019.00467
Rosendahl, S., Anturaniemi, J., Kukko-Lukjanov, T.-K., Vuori, K. A., Moore, R., Hemida, M., Muhle, A., & Hielm-Björkman, A. (2023). Mineral, Trace Element, and Toxic Metal Concentration in Hair from Dogs with Idiopathic Epilepsy Compared to Healthy Controls. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 37(3). Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.16698
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