Meningioma in Cats

The meninges is the membrane that lines the brain and spinal cord of both humans and animals. Meningiomas, or tumors in these membranes, have the potential to occur in cats as well as humans.

  1. Features

    • In cats, meningiomas usually occur over the main part of the brain, though occasionally they develop on the spine. Usually, meningiomas are benign, meaning that they are not harmful, reports Vet Connect.

    Symptoms

    • Common symptoms of a meningioma in a cat include changes in behavior, loss of vision and restlessness. Seizures are also possible in cats, but less frequent than other symptoms.

    Time Frame

    • A meningioma can develop anytime during a cat's life, but cats older than 9 are more susceptible to meninges tumors than younger animals, according to Vet Connect.

    Treatment

    • When the tumor is accessible, veterinarians typically operate to surgically remove the mass. If the tumor is not easily reached, veterinarians utilize corticosteroids such as dexamethasone or prednisone to minimize the symptoms of the tumor.

    Prognosis

    • Approximately 70 to 80 percent of cats that undergo the surgical removal of a meningioma fully recover and suffer no lasting effects, according to Vet Connect.