Canine epileptoid cramping syndrome

Overview

Canine epileptoid cramping syndrome (CECS), previously known as Spike's disease, is a hereditary dog disease initially found in Border Terriers and has since been documented in many other dog breeds including Labrador Retrievers and Chihuahuas, with similarities to canine epilepsy. Its cause is unknown. In 2015, a study concluded: "Canine epileptoid cramping syndrome in Border Terriers is a gluten-sensitive movement disorder triggered and perpetuated by gluten and thus responsive to a gluten-free diet."

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms: CECS can first occur at any age between a few months and 7 years.

Symptoms include:

cramping (often followed by exaggerated stretching)

staggering

trembling

Diagnosis

Diagnosis: The neurological symptoms CECS are of a paroxysmal dyskinesia, which is a type of movement disorder. This type of movement disorder can be difficult to differentiate from epilepsy, with the main difference being that, unlike during an epileptic seizure, there is no impairment of the consciousness during an episode of CECS. Between episodes of CECS, the dog has normal movement.

Treatment Approach

Treatment: Gluten free diet is an effective treatment for CECS. Other diets and some drugs might also help with some of the symptoms.