Cats are typically regarded as graceful and lithe creatures, so it's confusing or even amusing to see a kitty stumble once in a while. But if your cat is noticeably wobbly and even falling over while doing normal things like walking or grooming itself, then your kitty may have a problem that needs medical attention. Here's what you should know.
What's Likely Behind It
Typically, wobbling and falling over in cats is due to a neurological condition. In other words, something is impacting the brain and the nerves, keeping them from functioning properly.
Ordinarily, a cat's body is in sync and allows them to navigate their day while maintaining perfect balance. However, if a neurological problem develops, this may no longer be the case. As a result, your cat's sense of equilibrium is thrown off, and they struggle to maintain their balance, resulting in the wobbly appearance.
How It Could Have Happened
Some cats simply seem to develop neurological symptoms for no apparent reason. However, this is usually rare. There's typically a cause behind a cat's condition when they suddenly become dizzy like this.
In many cases, the neurological symptoms are due to poisoning. Certain foods and plants like lilies can be toxic to cats, and if consumed, it could effectively poison them, causing neurological issues.
In other cases, a physical issue may be to blame, like an injury or tumor. Being hit on the head can mess with your cat's neurological functioning, especially if there's bleeding on the brain. Alternatively, the development of something like a tumor that impacts the spine or the brain could be to blame.
What to Do
With a condition like this, time is of the essence. You want to get your cat to a vet as soon as possible.
Your veterinarian will perform a simple physical examination to look for any additional symptoms your cat may be having. They will likely also perform a blood test to look for poisoning, and a scan of some kind, like an x-ray or MRI, to look for internal damage or developments like tumors.
In the event of poisoning, IV fluids and activated charcoal may be given to help absorb the poison. In some cases, cats will regain full functionality after the poison has left their system.
With tumors, the treatment will have to be decided by your veterinarian. Some tumors can be removed, while others may be inoperable.
Lastly, if your cat has developed an otherwise harmless neurological problem, you may simply be told that your cat will be wobbly and dizzy from now on. While it may seem a little pitiful, cats typically adapt well to issues like these, and aside from the occasional stagger, your kitty will likely resume their daily activities with no issues.
For more information, contact an animal hospital.
Share26 August 2020
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