![]() ![]() If you notice signs of ataxia in your cat, it’s important to see your vet immediately. How Veterinarians Diagnose Ataxia in Cats Issues with oxygen getting to the brain associated with cardiac or respiratory disease Metronidazole toxicity caused by high-dose administration of this antibiotic Structural changes such as underdevelopment or malformation of the cerebellum, most often seen when the mother cat was infected with panleukopenia virus while the kitten was forming in utero (cerebellar hypoplasia). Thiamine deficiency was a common cause of ataxia, until the introduction of modern, balanced commercial cat food however, as more cats are fed non-commercial diets without veterinary supervision, thiamine deficiency is once again increasing ![]() Inflammation, often due to unknown causes Loss of blood flow to an area of the spinal cord because of a stroke-like event, or a bleeding blood vessel causing a buildup of blood to compress the spinal cordīirth defects causing the spine or vertebrae to be malformedĬompression/damage to the spinal cord caused by a tumor, a pocket of infection (abscess), or trauma, which can lead to swelling and bleeding in the spinal canalĭegeneration (breaking down) of cerebellar tissues Idiopathic (unknown cause) vestibular diseaseĭegeneration (breaking down) of the spinal cords and nerves over time Infection, especially feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) or fungal infection There is a long list of possible causes of ataxia, depending on whether the condition is vestibular, sensory, or cerebellar. Sometimes a cause cannot be determined even with extensive testing, but it is very important to rule out as many causes as possible so your vet can create a treatment plan.Ĭauses of vestibular ataxia in cats include: Cats with chronic ataxia have generally adjusted over time and are less likely to be nauseated. They may also have more subtle symptoms, such as a mild head tilt or a curling under of the toes while walking.Ĭats suffering from ataxia may also have an abnormal eye movement called nystagmus, which is caused by an underlying issue with the central nervous system.Ĭats that suddenly become ataxic often roll or fall to one side and have significant nausea due to feeling so unsteady. They may have head and/or body tremors and swaying of the torso.Īn ataxic cat may look like they are drunk, with a wobbly gait, swaying, and increased drowsiness. Cats with cerebellar ataxia generally have a wide stance and exaggerated, large steps. Cerebellar ataxia results in uncoordinated movement of the limbs, torso, and head. Sensory (spinal or proprioceptive): Sensory ataxia is typically caused by lesions in the spinal cord, especially spinal cord compression. This leads to the cat not knowing where his feet are in space, which may cause knuckling of toes, crossing of legs, etc.Ĭerebellar: The cerebellum is the part of the brain that helps control fine motor movement and motor strength. Vestibular: The vestibular system, located in the inner ear and brainstem, maintains balance and a sense of “up and down.” Vestibular ataxia usually leads to a head tilt, leaning, falling, and rolling, as affected cats cannot get their bearings. Cats with central vestibular ataxia, meaning the brain stem is affected, often are extremely drowsy or sedate. ![]() There are three main types of ataxia in cats: Ataxia is the word used to describe a loss of coordination and balance that affects your cat’s head, limbs, and/or torso. Ataxia is caused by decreased sensory function of the nervous system, which in turn can be caused by a wide range of diseases. ![]()
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