Is feline vestibular disease fatal?
Vestibular disease affects both cats and dogs, usually in their later years. It can be fatal, or it may resolve over time, but in both cases immediate veterinary care is crucial to preserve the life of your pet.
How long does vestibular disease last?
The head tilt and stumbling often improve over a seven to ten-day period. Most patients are completely recovered within two to three weeks, although some will have residual symptoms such as a head tilt or mild “wobbling” for life.
How long does it take for vestibular disease to go away in cats?
Although the signs are typically the same as those associated with other types of peripheral vestibular disease, they are transitory, arising abruptly and then gradually improving over the course of several days. Most cats will be completely recovered within two or three weeks.
What happens if a cat is walking in circles?
In this situation, the cat might be incapable of walking properly for the remainder of her life. In even worse cases, the infection can spread, affecting the cat’s respiratory and cardiovascular health. A cat who’s walking in circles could have suffered a head injury or could have a brain or sinus tumor.
What causes feline vestibular disease in older cats?
We do not fully understand why feline vestibular disease occurs in many cases. Conditions such as middle- and inner-ear infections are common causes of the disease. Tumors are a less common cause but must be considered, especially in older cats.
What should I do if my cat gets dizzy?
Treatment will depend on the discovery of any concurrent conditions or underlying causes. If there is no identified cause, your veterinarian will suggest supportive care that you can provide your dizzy kitty while he recovers. The good news: most cases resolve quickly, with cats recovering from this disease without medication.