Neurological Symptoms in Cats

It is frightening to see your cat go into a seizure or become unconscious, especially if there is no known history of a serious illness. There are many neurological disorder symptoms to consider that come from a variety of causes. It is always important to take a cat with neurological symptoms to the emergency vet right away for an exact diagnosis and treatment options.

Seizures

Seizures are the biggest cause of neurological symptoms in cats. Seizures can be secondary or related to an underlying condition. Causes of secondary seizures include feline hypertension, brain tumors, inflammatory diseases or parasites. Epilepsy is a seizure with no determined cause and is rare in cats.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is determined by: a complete physical exam, blood tests, EKG, CT scan, MRI and CSF (Cerebral Spinal Fluid) tap and analysis.

Other Causes

Panleukopenia -- Feline distemper. A viral infection that causes a lack of balance.
Poisoning -- Cleaning products, garden sprays, pest killers and certain household plants.
Toxoplasmosis -- A parasite that affects the central nervous system and causes blindness and ataxia.
Feline Hyperesthesia -- Abnormal behavior.

Symptoms

Common neurological symptoms include running in circles, loud meowing at night, rippling skin on the back, excessive and manic grooming and frequent mood swings.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on the underlying medical condition. Anticonvulsant drugs such as phenobarbitol can be given to control seizures.

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