Ataxia is a condition in which an animal experiences a loss of balance and coordination due to sensory dysfunction. The condition can be caused by multiple underlying health issues and results in debilitating and distressing symptoms in cats and dogs.
Causes of Ataxia
There are three different types of ataxia: proprioceptive (sensory), vestibular, and cerebellar. Proprioceptive ataxia is caused by compression of the spinal cord. This affects an animal’s awareness of the position and movement of their body. Vestibular ataxia is caused by abnormal functioning of the inner ear or brainstem that leads to a general loss of balance. Cerebellar ataxia is caused by damage to the cerebellum, the part of the brain at the back of the skull that’s responsible for coordination and movement.
Each type of ataxia can be caused by a number of underlying disorders. Ataxia may also be idiopathic, this means that it has no identifiable cause. Proprioceptive ataxia can occur as a result of issues including trauma, infection, cysts, tumors, and spinal abnormalities. Causes of vestibular ataxia include inner ear infection, trauma, cancer, and poisoning. By comparison, cerebellar ataxia can be caused by conditions including brain infection, brain tumors, and meningitis. This type of ataxia is also thought to be linked to genetic factors.
Symptoms of Ataxia
Symptoms of ataxia can vary widely, depending on the type and cause of the condition. Please visit your veterinarian immediately if your pet displays any of the following signs or symptoms of ataxia.
- Loss of balance and coordination
- Abnormal eye movements
- Abnormal gait
- Loss of hearing
- Weakness
- Head tilting
- Tremors
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Behavioral change
Diagnosis of Ataxia
Your veterinarian will assess your pet’s medical history and ask you a series of questions about the onset and severity of their symptoms. They will then perform a thorough physical and neurologic examination to check for clinical signs of ataxia.
Routine diagnostic tests including bloodwork and a urinalysis will be carried out to assess organ function and help identify potential causes of your pet’s symptoms. Depending on the results of these tests, your veterinarian may recommend additional testing to help them reach a diagnosis. These may include analysis of spinal fluid, X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. These tests will help your veterinarian to identify or rule out conditions such as tumors, cancer, and spinal abnormalities.
Treatment of Ataxia
Treatment of ataxia will depend on the underlying cause of the condition, as well as factors including your pet’s age and overall health. In some cases, a period of hospitalization may be necessary so your pet can receive supportive care.
Potential treatments for ataxia include antibiotics to combat infection, surgical removal of tumors, and chemotherapy or radiation therapy to treat cancer. Your veterinarian may also prescribe medications such as analgesics and anti-inflammatories to manage your pet’s symptoms. Please follow all treatment advice closely and administer prescribed medications as instructed.
Prevention of Ataxia
Ataxia is not considered preventable since there are numerous potential causes of the condition. Please schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian so your pet’s overall health can be continuously monitored.
