Cats are generally graceful creatures, known to land neatly on all four feet after a jump or fall. Cat owners, then, are naturally concerned when their feline companions show signs of a balance problem.
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Causes of Cat Balance Problems
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Most cat balance problems fall under the umbrella of what veterinarians call vestibular disease. In cases of vestibular disease, the fluid balance contained in the inner ear is off balance, causing the whole animal to be off balance. Vestibular disease is primarily caused by an ear or ear-related infection, although it can be caused by other circulatory and heart problems, trauma, or neurological issues. Only a trained veterinary professional can determine exactly what is causing a cat's vestibular disease.
Symptoms of Vestibular Disease
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Aside from the obvious stumbling that may be seen in a cat with balance problems, other symptoms of vestibular disease are often displayed. A cat with ear-related vestibular disease may tilt the head to one side, which often indicates which ear is affected. The cat may also be reluctant to jump or move quickly due to its affected balance. Dizziness, rolling eyes, leaning, and rubbing one ear repeatedly may also be symptoms of vestibular disease.
Treatment of Cat Balance Problems
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Once a veterinarian has established why a cat is having balance problems, treatment can begin. Treatment varies with the identified cause and may include antibiotics to treat ear infections or other infections and various medications to address cardiology and blood pressure issues.
Steroids
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Steroids are among the most commonly prescribed medications in many cases of cat balance issues. Steroids help by reducing inflammation in the inner ear areas that affect balance. This helps to restore proper fluid levels in the inner ear and to restore the cat's ability to stay on all four paws. The most commonly prescribed steroids for cats are hydrocortisone and prednisone. These medications can be administered in liquid, pill, or injection form, depending on the veterinarian, the condition, and the cat. Some steroids are injected directly into an affected area. Steroids for balance problems, however, are generally given in a form that the cat swallows since they need to reach the inner ear to reduce swelling and inflammation.
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