Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 5/16/2006

Question
My collie dog approx 10 years old has lately started to have involintary tremors/spasms through her whole body, even her teeth chatter, she has these, one every 3 - 4 seconds, its like her whole body contracts like a womans stomach in labour, she is eating and drinking and doing her business as normal, there are no  signs of ill health, bad teeth, itchy skin, hair loss etc.  Please would you have any idea as to what this might be and what to give her to help.

Thanks Angela

Answer
This could be some type of neurological problem, like a mild epilepsy.  Although you said that she appears healthy, a veterinarian's exam may reveal something.  Blood tests may show low blood sugar, low blood calcium, liver or kidney disease.  Those things can cause tremors.