Seizures in Maine Coons: Epilepsy, Toxins, and What to Do#

There is nothing—absolutely nothing—scarier than watching your cat have a seizure. One minute they are sleeping; the next, they are rigid, paddling their paws, foaming at the mouth, and unresponsive.

While Maine Coons are generally healthy, they (like any breed) can suffer from neurological issues. Because they are large animals, a grand mal seizure in a Maine Coon is violent and terrifying to witness. I wrote this guide so you know exactly what is happening, why it happens, and what to do in those critical 2 minutes.

What is a Seizure?#

A seizure is an electrical storm in the brain. It is a misfire of neurons.

• Grand Mal (Generalized): The cat falls over, paddles legs, drools/foams, and may lose bladder control. They are unconscious.
• Petit Mal (Focal): The cat might just stare into space, twitch one ear, or “fly bite” (snap at invisible flies). They might remain conscious but confused.

The Causes: Why is this happening?#

1. Toxins (The #1 Suspect)#

Before you assume epilepsy, check your house.

• Essential Oils: Tea Tree, Peppermint, and Eucalyptus are neurotoxins to cats. Diffusing them can trigger seizures. (See my Toxic Plants guide).
• Flea Meds: Cheap, over-the-counter dog flea meds used on cats contain Permethrin. This causes violent tremors and death.
• Plants: Lilies cause kidney failure, which can lead to seizures in the final stages.

2. Idiopathic Epilepsy#

If toxins and tumors are ruled out, the diagnosis is often Idiopathic Epilepsy.

• Age of Onset: Usually starts between 1 and 4 years old.
• Genetics: It can run in lines. If you bought from a reputable breeder, notify them immediately. They need to know so they don’t breed the parents again.

3. Senior Issues (The Scary Stuff)#

If a cat has their first seizure after age 10, it is rarely epilepsy. It is usually a brain tumor (Meningioma), stroke, or high blood pressure (Hypertension).

The “What To Do” Protocol#

If your Maine Coon starts convulsing:

1. Do Not Touch Their Mouth: They cannot swallow their tongue. If you put your hand near their mouth, you will be bitten severely. Their jaw is clamping involuntarily.
2. Move Hazards: Don’t move the cat (unless they are near stairs/water). Move the furniture away from them.
3. Time It: Look at your watch. A seizure usually lasts 60–90 seconds. It feels like an hour.
   • The 5-Minute Rule: If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, or if they have back-to-back seizures without waking up (Status Epilepticus), GO TO THE ER IMMEDIATELY. Their brain is overheating.

The Aftermath (Post-Ictal Phase)#

After the seizure stops, your cat will be blind, confused, and terrified for about 30 minutes.

• They may pace, howl, or run into walls.
• What to do: Keep the room dark and quiet. Lock other pets away (dogs may attack a seizing animal). Just sit nearby and speak softly until they recognize you.

Treatment Options#

If your cat has epilepsy, they can live a normal life with medication.

• Phenobarbital: The most common drug. It requires daily dosing and blood tests to check liver levels.
• Keppra (Levetiracetam): A newer drug with fewer side effects, often used if Phenobarbital affects the liver.

Conclusion#

A seizure disorder is manageable, but it requires a strict routine. You cannot miss a medication dose. If your Maine Coon has a seizure, do not panic. Time it, film it (for the vet), and keep them safe.

Resources & Further Reading#

• Veterinary Neurology Center: Understanding Feline Epilepsy.
• Pet Poison Helpline: Permethrin Poisoning in Cats.