When we created Jiminy’s, our goal was to craft nutritious, sustainable dog food and treats using insect protein that’s easier on the planet and gentler on our dogs' bodies. We expected to help with digestion, allergies, and environmental impact—but a note we recently received stopped us in our tracks:
“Jiminy’s has nearly stopped my epileptic dog’s seizures. Can you believe that? I had no expectation of anything of the sort when I switched to Jiminy’s.”
No, we couldn’t believe it—and yet, we’ve heard from more than one customer over the years with similar experiences.
We want to be clear: Jiminy’s food is not a treatment for epilepsy. But it turns out, there’s some interesting science that might explain why a high-quality, insect protein-based diet could support neurological health in some dogs.
Let’s explore.
Insect Protein and the Brain: A Nutritional Perspective
Cricket and grub protein—our star ingredients—aren’t just sustainable. They’re loaded with nutrients that play essential roles in the brain and nervous system:
1. Tryptophan: A Natural Mood and Brain Supporter
Insect protein is naturally high in tryptophan, an amino acid that helps produce serotonin. Serotonin supports emotional balance and may also help regulate electrical activity in the brain. Some studies in both humans and animals suggest serotonin may play a role in seizure control.
2. Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant Properties
Compounds found in insects, including chitin and bioactive peptides, have shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in early studies. Since inflammation is a known trigger in certain types of seizures, this could be a valuable area of further exploration.
3. Gut Health and the Brain Connection
A dog’s digestive health is closely tied to their neurological health through what’s called the gut-brain axis. If your pup has undetected food sensitivities to conventional proteins like chicken or beef, switching to a novel, hypoallergenic protein like crickets may reduce systemic inflammation—including in the brain.
4. A Brain-Friendly Nutrient Profile
Medium-chain TAG (MCT) in grubs (aka BSFL) may help reduce seizures because MCT’s can be used as an energy source in the brain. Since a ketogenic diet has been shown to reduce seizures in humans, and MCT’s are precursors for ketones, this is one possible mechanism. Jiminy’s food delivers MCT’s along with all essential amino acids, omega-3s, B vitamins (including B6 and B12), magnesium, and zinc. These are nutrients known to support nerve function, reduce oxidative stress, and help regulate neurotransmitters.
Dog Breeds Predisposed to Seizures
Idiopathic epilepsy can be inherited in many dog breeds. Research has identified several breeds with a genetic predisposition to seizures, including:
· Border Collies These intelligent herding dogs have approximately a 1.45% rate of seizures, making them fifth on the list of breeds most prone to this condition.
· Labrador Retrievers The most popular dog breed in America is unfortunately predisposed to idiopathic epilepsy. This applies to all color variations (black, yellow, and chocolate).
· Golden Retrievers Like their Labrador cousins, these beloved family dogs tend to be genetically predisposed to epilepsy despite their generally healthy nature.
· Australian Shepherds This breed has been identified in multiple studies as being predisposed to idiopathic epilepsy.
· Beagles With a 1.37% incidence rate of seizures, these small, friendly dogs are among the breeds most susceptible to seizures.
· Belgian Tervuren This alert, intelligent working breed shows a significant predisposition to epilepsy.
· German Shepherds These popular working dogs appear on multiple lists of breeds with higher seizure risk.
Other breeds with increased risk include Bernese Mountain Dogs, Poodles, Saint Bernards, Finnish Spitz, Irish Wolfhounds, and Vizslas.
Recognizing the Signs of a Seizure
Knowing what to look for can help you identify if your dog is experiencing a seizure. Seizures typically happen in three distinct phases:
1. Pre-Seizure (Aura) Phase: Before a seizure occurs, dogs may show altered behavior. Your dog might hide, appear nervous, seek attention, whine, or seem anxious. Some may become restless, shake, or salivate excessively. Not all dogs experience this aura stage, but recognizing it can help you prepare and keep your pet safe.
2. During the Seizure (Ictal Phase): The most common signs include uncontrolled shaking, jerking, or twitching. Your dog may collapse and paddle their legs as if swimming. They might perform chewing motions, salivate, and sometimes lose control of their bladder or bowels. Some seizures may look like your dog is just staring into space or snapping at invisible objects (sometimes called "fly biting").
3. Post-Seizure (Postictal) Phase: After a seizure ends, dogs often experience confusion, disorientation, restlessness, or temporary blindness. They might walk in circles, seem unsteady, or try to hide. This recovery phase can last from a few minutes to several hours.
What to Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure
Stay calm and ensure your dog is in a safe place where they can't hurt themselves. Never put your fingers or objects in your dog's mouth — contrary to popular belief, dogs don't swallow their tongues during seizures. Most seizures last less than 1-2 minutes and are not painful for your dog, although they may seem frightening to witness.
If your dog has a seizure that lasts more than 5 minutes (status epilepticus) or has multiple seizures within 24 hours (cluster seizures), seek emergency veterinary care immediately, as these situations can be life-threatening.
Keeping a seizure log with dates, times, duration, and potential triggers can be extremely helpful for your veterinarian in developing an effective treatment plan.
⚠️ We Don't Make Medical Claims - But We Are Listening
Epilepsy is complex and individualized, and no one food can be called a cure. But when we hear a story like this, we pay attention.
Sometimes, the right nutrition can make an unexpected difference.
💬 We'd Love to Hear Your Story
If your dog has experienced positive changes—whether fewer seizures, better digestion, less itching, or more energy—after switching to Jiminy’s, please share your story with us. These insights help us understand how our food supports real dogs in real ways.
Because better food doesn’t just help the planet—it might just help your pup feel their very best, too.