Head Injuries in a Cat

Feline head injuries can be life-threatening, if left untreated. Owners who find that their cat has suffered some type of head trauma should seek emergency veterinary care immediately, as untreated head injuries can result in death.

  1. Causes

    • A cat may suffer from head trauma for a variety of reasons. A car accident, intentional harm by a person or fighting with another cat are potential causes of a feline head injury.

    Symptoms

    • Aside from the visible physical damage, the cat may have many symptoms. This includes change in consciousness, seizures, pale gums, head tilt or paralysis of one or more limbs.

    Diagnosis

    • A head injury generally can be confirmed by a physical examination by a veterinarian. However, the veterinarian will run additional tests to determine the severity and type of head trauma present. This includes a neurologic exam and X-rays or a CT scan of the cat’s skull.

    Treatment

    • Treatment depends on the severity of the cat’s injury. Severe injuries may require hospitalization, medications for swelling, seizures and pain may be necessary. Surgical treatment may be needed for severe damage to the skull or skin.

    Prognosis

    • Not all head injuries result in death for the affected cat. Some cats may recover fully, though some may have permanent paralysis or other damage, and other cats may not survive the incident.