Mary Allen
An unsteady gait, frequent tipping over or even paralyzed hind legs can indicate ataxia in cats. Learn more here.
Recognize ataxia in cats
Cats are known for their graceful and dexterous movements. This is different with ataxic cats: they show uncoordinated movements as if they were just waking up from an anesthetic. Classic symptoms of illnesses in cats such as fever or loss of appetite, on the other hand, are absent. You can find more indications that your cat is ill here.
What is behind ataxia in cats
Basically, ataxia is an unsuccessful interaction of different muscle groups when a movement is performed. For this reason, ataxia is not an actual disease, but rather a handicap and a side effect of various diseases.
Often, however, the animal’s zest for life is not clouded, as the cat comes to terms with the movement and coordination disorders.
Causes and forms of ataxia in cats
The veterinarian can only find out what the cause of the cat’s ataxia is with the help of extensive diagnostic procedures. There may be damage to the central nervous system. Infections, genetic defects, metabolic problems, nutrient deficiencies, and accidents are also among the causes.
Depending on the reason for the disability, there are three forms of ataxia in cats:
- Cerebellar ataxia: caused by an accident or tumor, for example
- Sensory ataxia: caused by diseases of the joints, for example
- Vestibular ataxia: caused by disease of the nerves, for example
Regardless of the form of ataxia, cats with it find it difficult to move or are unable to do it at all. The brain lacks the ability to control movement.
Symptoms: This is how ataxia appears in cats
Cats are usually very good at hiding ailments. With ataxia this is different. If your cat has ataxia, you will quickly find out.
Your furry friend might often hold its head at an angle. Or she shakes her head or trembles. Sometimes there is trembling in the eye area.
A wobbly and unsteady gait of the cats is also typical. The pet will wobble even when standing and even fall over.
Some cats stretch their legs noticeably far forward when they walk. A wide-legged gait can occasionally be observed. In the worst case, the front or hind legs are paralyzed.
The typical symptoms of ataxia in cats at a glance:
- balance problems
- stiff, wobbly gait
- clearly stretched forelegs and arched hindlegs when running
- trembling eyes
- shaking of the head (tremor)
- tilting of the head
- Disorders of perception and consciousness
- extreme sensitivity to loud noises
- Difficulty estimating distances
- Difficulty focusing on objects such as toys
Ataxia: owner and animal can live with it
How severe the symptoms depend on the individual case. However, they are recognizable even to a layman.
If the vet confirms the suspicion, cat owners need not be sad: the cat is usually not in pain and can lead a happy cat life. The symptoms often improve over the years.
Ataxic cat owners should make the home more cat-focused. Even small measures ensure that the animal does not injure itself and can move around the house more easily. These include, for example, a raised feeding bowl and securing the stairs.
We wish you and your darling all the best!