Feline immunodeficiency syndrome, feline leukemia, diabetes or hyperthyroidism represent some of the most common diseases in cats. However, there are many others that, although they have a lower incidence, could be being suffered by these animals. One of them is known as feline vestibular syndrome, a pathology that can be relatively easy to identify, or at least to raise suspicions, due to how characteristic and recognizable its symptoms are.
Although feline vestibular syndrome does not pose a risk to the cat’s health in itself, it sometimes ends up being a manifestation of another disease. Therefore, it is important to know what it is and what the warning signs are that you should pay attention to, in order to go to the veterinarian and have a proper assessment and diagnosis carried out. It should be noted that all felines can suffer from it; there is no notable higher incidence depending on the breed, with a few exceptions. Although it is more common in middle age.
Feline vestibular syndrome occurs when a dysfunction occurs in the vestibular system (VS). This, located in the brain and the inner ear, is responsible for regulating the sense of balance and facilitating the coordination of body movements, linking the head, eyes, trunk and extremities. However, when this does not work correctly is when the so-called feline vestibular syndrome occurs.
The causes, as already mentioned, may be congenital or as a result of another disease. In the case of Siamese and Burmese cats, a higher incidence of congenital vestibular syndrome has been recorded, which usually manifests itself during the first weeks of life. On the other hand, it can also be a symptom of cases of otitis, intracranial neoplasms, nasopharyngeal and otopharyngeal polyps or idiopathic vestibular disease, among others.
The most classic and common way to identify a cat with feline vestibular syndrome is to notice that it tilts or tilts its head, usually in the direction of its condition. Therefore, this gesture should be an important warning sign for owners, who must go to a veterinary center so that specialized personnel can study their case and the state of health of the animal.
