Equilibrium Problems in Cats

There are several different potential causes for equilibrium problems in cats. To help determine what caused a cat's loss of equilibrium, look at the symptoms and signs the cat exhibited before and after the loss of equilibrium occurred. It is important to know that equilibrium problems in cats are never a good sign, and nearly always need to be assessed by a veterinarian.

  1. Significance

    • Equilibrium problems in cats can originate during the first phases of a concussion, can occur as a precursor to a diabetic crisis, as a result of shock, or may indicate the spread of an ear or throat infection or vestibular disease. When a cat appears to have problems relating to balance and equilibrium, getting to the bottom of the cause is important. Issues that may lead to equilibrium problems in cats require veterinary treatment as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis.

    Emergency Problems

    • If the cat has lost its sense of equilibrium following a traumatic injury, the most likely culprit is a concussion. If the cat has lost its sense of equilibrium and appears to be drinking water more frantically than normal, the cat may be experiencing a diabetic crisis. Finally, if one pupil appears to be larger than the other and the cat is having equilibrium problems, a head injury may have occurred. In each of these cases veterinary care needs to be administered immediately.

    Symptoms of Infection

    • If the cat is shaking his or her head frantically and also appears to be having equilibrium problems, the beginnings of an ear infection are likely. If the cat is pulling its ears down and appears to be refusing food, these are further symptoms that an ear infection is the likely culprit. Internal ear infections and vestibular disease also cause equilibrium problems in cats. The cat may also be turning its eyes aside in one direction, indicating an ear infection.

    Identification

    • Cats exhibiting signs of an equilibrium problem should be moved to an enclosed and comfortable area for further inspection. If the cat is exhibiting symptoms of injury, shock or concussion, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately. Examine the external portion of the cat's ears for ear wax, inflammation or signs of a potential infection. If you must move the cat, do so using an enclosed box or carrier that is dark inside.

    Solution

    • Some causes of equilibrium problems in cats are capable of causing further harm to the cat if not treated promptly, so any equilibrium problems in cats need to be addressed by a veterinarian. A physical examination of the cat can rule out head injuries and infections of the ear or throat. The cat may need to stay in the veterinary clinic overnight to rule out concussion or other causes of the equilibrium problem.