In cats, the nervous system includes the spinal cord, the brain stem and the brain. Congenital defects (defects which are present at birth) can affect any portion of the nervous system and cause serious issues for cats and their owners.
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Feline Hyperesthesia (FHS)
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Feline hyperesthesia is a collective term for several different symptoms and may be caused by seizures or feline obsessive compulsive disorder as well as by congenital disorders. Symptoms include aggressive behavior, frenetic (maniacal) grooming, sudden mood swings and bizarre hyperactivity.
Congenital Vestibular Syndrome
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The vestibular system controls the cat's balance. Problems with the vestibular system can cause head tilt, loss of balance, involuntary twitching and vomiting.
Cerebellar Hypoplasia (CH)
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In cats, cerebellar hypoplasia is a congenital underdevelopment of the cerebellum, which is the portion of the brain that controls coordination, balance and movement. Feline cerebellar hypoplasia causes tremors, jerky movements and problems walking.
Hydrocephalus
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Hydrocephalus in cats is a congenital condition in which excessive cerebrospinal fluids accumulate in the ventricular system of the feline brain. Symptoms include an abnormal dome-shaped head, seizures, spastic behavior and head tilt.
Additional Neurological Disorders
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Other congenital neurological disorders that can affect felines include spina bifida (malformation of the spinal cord), feline epilepsy and cerebral palsy.
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