Generalized seizures can be idiopathic epilepsy, acquired epilepsy or active seizure disease. On the other hand, partial-partial seizures or partial seizures which generalize can not be idiopathic epilepsy. Generalized-partial seizures are only seen as a form of idiopathic epilepsy in dachshunds and poodles. Therefore, while the classification of the seizure may not specify the nature of the seizure disorder, it can help narrow the possibilities. Symmetry of the seizure is important, too.
Idiopathic epilepsy is always symmetrical, whether generalized or partial.
An asymmetric seizure cannot be idiopathic epilepsy. The age of the patient is important in assessing the likelihood of the nature of the seizure disorder. Idiopathic epilepsy, in general, has its age of onset between 1 and 3 years of age. In addition, idiopathic epilepsy is most common in purebred dogs and cats. While acquired epilepsy can occur at any age, it usually follows the inciting injury by 6 months to 1 year.