Neurological problems in cats: causes and treatment

Many of us might find it curious or even funny to see our cat walking in circles or tilting its head in a strange way. However, what at first glance seems like a peculiar and cute behavior could actually be a sign of a neurological problem known as vestibular syndrome.

What is vestibular syndrome in cats?

El vestibular syndrome It is a disorder of the nervous system that affects the balance and coordination of the feline. It manifests itself through symptoms such as head tilt, nystagmus (involuntary eye movements), loss of balance, walking in circles and, in more severe cases, the inability to walk properly.

A cat's vestibular system is responsible for informing the brain about the position of the head, allowing the animal to maintain its balance and coordination. When any part of this system (located in the inner ear or the brain) is affected, these symptoms may appear.

Classification of vestibular syndrome

Vestibular syndrome is classified into two types depending on the location of the lesion: peripheral vestibular y central vestibular.

• Peripheral vestibular: It mainly affects the inner ear where the vestibular system is located. Severe ear infections are one of the main causes. This type usually has a better prognosis and is easier to treat with medication or surgery if necessary.
• Central vestibular: In this case, the origin of the problem is in the brain. The most common causes are brain tumors, infections or even congenital malformations. Treatment in these cases is usually more complicated and the prognosis can be reserved.

Symptoms of neurological problems in cats

Several symptom which may indicate that your cat is suffering from a neurological problem. Among the most common are:

• Head tilt: A clear sign of vestibular disorders, where the cat keeps its head tilted or twisted to one side constantly.
• March in circles: This symptom is characteristic and can be present in both small and large circles.
• Loss of balance: Vestibular syndrome affects a cat's balance system, which can cause it to stumble or even fall while walking.
• Nystagmus: Involuntary and rapid movement of the eyes, which can be either horizontal or vertical.
• Paralysis or weakness in the limbs: Depending on the severity of the neurological problem, the cat may show signs of weakness or even paralysis.
• Seizures: Some neurological diseases, such as epilepsy, can cause seizures in cats.
• Lack of coordination: Also known as ataxia, it causes the cat to walk erratically or uncoordinatedly.

Causes of vestibular syndrome and other neurological problems

The causes Neurological problems in cats are varied, and knowing them can help you determine how to act. They can be congenital, infectious, toxic or even traumatic.

• Otitis: An inner ear infection can trigger peripheral vestibular syndrome, which primarily affects the balance system.
• Brain trauma: A blow to the head can affect the central vestibular system, causing severe symptoms such as loss of balance and seizures.
• Poisoning: Certain toxic products such as pesticides or plants toxic to cats can trigger neurological symptoms acutely.
• Tumors: Some tumors, especially in the inner ear or brain, can cause vestibular or general neurological problems.
• Infectious diseases: Viruses or bacteria such as feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) can also affect the nervous system.

Treatment of vestibular syndrome in cats

Treatment for neurological problems in cats depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms.

• Otitis: If vestibular syndrome is caused by otitis, treatment with antibiotics or antifungals may resolve the problem.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs: To reduce inflammation in the inner ear or brain.
• Surgery: In cases of tumors or lesions affecting the central vestibular system, surgical intervention may be necessary.
• Antiepileptics: In cases of recurrent seizures due to diseases such as epilepsy.

Diagnostic tests for neurological problems in cats

Once the first neurological symptoms are detected, it is essential to go to the vet as soon as possible to perform diagnostic tests such as:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): It allows the brain and inner ear to be analyzed to locate possible injuries.
• Computed tomography (CT): Useful in diagnosing brain tumors or inner ear infections.
• Cerebrospinal fluid extraction: Cerebrospinal fluid analysis can help detect possible infections or inflammation of the nervous system.
• Blood test: Useful for ruling out infectious diseases such as leukemia or toxoplasmosis.

Prevention and care

It is difficult to completely prevent neurological problems such as vestibular syndrome, but certain measures can help reduce the risks:

• Keep your cat's vaccinations up to date to protect against diseases such as FIP or feline leukemia.
• Prevent your cat from having access to toxic substances or risk of trauma from falls.
• go to the vet at any sign of ear infection.

Detecting these neurological problems early is essential to avoid major complications. While some problems, such as those associated with ear infections, have a good prognosis, others, such as brain tumors, may require more invasive treatments and long-term care.

If you notice any strange behavior in your cat, such as head tilting, seizures, or loss of balance, it is imperative that you take your cat to the vet immediately. Not all neurological diseases are fatal, but the earlier they are detected, the better the prognosis for your pet.