Many owners are surprised to hear that hypothyroidism is the underlying cause of their dog's epilepsy. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland malfunctions--either due to issues with the thyroid gland itself or with signals being sent to the thyroid gland from the brain. When hypothyroidism is due to signal malfunction of the brain, it can result in the recurring seizures associated with canine epilepsy.
Several causes have been proposed for the rising incidence of canine hypothyroidism. Vaccines and inadequate or excess dietary iodine are the primary suspected causes. Studies have shown increased blood levels of thyroid antibodies occurring shortly after the administration of multiple-component vaccines. These antibodies are likely produced in response to contaminants from fetal calf serum commonly used to make canine vaccines.
原文 Epilepsy and Behavioral Disorders in Dogs with Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism in dogs can cause sudden onset of epilepsy. Male and Female canines are affected equally. In addition, spayed and non-spayed animals are equally affected. Neutering does not fix the problem and often makes it worse.