Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Cat with head tilt and facial paralysis recovers in 7 weeks
By Fraser, A R et al.·Published in Australian veterinary journal·2015·The University of Melbourne Veterinary Hospital, Australia·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Concurrent idiopathic vestibular syndrome and facial nerve paralysis in a cat.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A 4-year-old male neutered Domestic Medium-hair cat was brought to the vet for a right head tilt and unsteady walking that had lasted for two weeks. After thorough testing, including blood work and imaging, the vet found no underlying issues and diagnosed the cat with idiopathic vestibular syndrome (a balance disorder) and facial nerve paralysis. Fortunately, after about seven weeks of monitoring, the cat fully recovered and showed no more symptoms.
People also search for: cat head tilt treatment · cat facial nerve paralysis · idiopathic vestibular syndrome in cats
Abstract
CASE REPORT: A 4-year-old male neutered Domestic Medium-hair cat was referred for right head tilt and ataxia of 2 weeks duration. On examination it was determined that the cat had right facial nerve paralysis and peripheral vestibular signs. Haematology and serum biochemical testing were performed in addition to magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and ears, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. An underlying condition was not identified. A diagnosis of idiopathic vestibular syndrome and concurrent idiopathic right facial nerve paralysis was consequently made. The cat was re-evaluated over the following weeks and was determined to have complete resolution of clinical signs within 7 weeks. CONCLUSION: Vestibular dysfunction and concurrent facial nerve paralysis have previously been reported in the cat, but not of an idiopathic nature.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26113351/