A number of parasites (including worms and insects) are associated with central nervous system disease. Diagnosis requires eliminating other possible causes of illness, such as rabies, and identifying the specific parasite responsible.
Flukes
Two species of Paragonimus lung flukes can accidentally migrate to the nervous system and produce cysts in
Facial paralysis in cats may result from injuries caused by rough handling or other trauma, such as automobile accidents or ear infection. Paralysis on one side of the face is common when the facial nerve is damaged. Facial paralysis on both sides of the face can be more difficult to recognize, but affected animals often drool and have a dull facial expression. In total facial paralysis, the animal cannot move its eyelids, ears, lips, or nostrils. In partial paralysi
Feline dysautonomia (also known as Key-Gaskell syndrome) is a disorder of the autonomic nervous system, which controls many reflexes and other involuntary neurologic functions. All breeds and age groups are susceptible, although the disease may be more common in younger cats. Feline dysautonomia was first reported in 1982 and initially became widespread in the UK; the incidence declined considerably but recently seems to have r
Diseases of the spinal column and cord include congenital defects (discussed earlier in this chapter), degenerative diseases, inflammatory and infectious diseases, tumors, nutritional diseases, injury and trauma, toxic disorders, and vascular diseases.
Degenerative Diseases
Degenerative lumbosacral stenosis is a disorder of the vertebrae in the lower back that
Disorders of the peripheral nerves include degenerative diseases, inflammatory diseases, metabolic disorders, cancers, toxic disorders, disorders caused by injury, and blood vessel diseases.
Degenerative Disorders
Idiopathic facial paralysis is a common disorder that results in weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles in cats. Domestic longhaired cats are at increased r
Some congenital defects (defects present at birth), are inherited from the parents, while others are caused by environmental factors in the womb, such as nutritional deficiencies or some viral infections. For many, the cause is unknown.
Kittens are born with a nervous system that is not fully developed, and birth defects may not become apparent until they begin to walk. In some cases, evidence of an inherited disorder may not be seen until the ca
Once a diagnosis is made, appropriate therapy can be considered. There are several groups of drugs that are used to treat disorders of the nervous system. Drugs used to treat epileptic seizures are known as anticonvulsants. Anti-inflammatory medications, including corticosteroids, are used to reduce swelling and inflammation in many types of injuries. These medications may be given intravenously in some cases (such as spinal cord injury) and by mouth in others. Other medications
Evaluation of the nervous system begins with an accurate history and general physical examination, followed by a neurologic examination. There are a number of specific physical tests that can be carried out to evaluate the functioning of the various components of the nervous system. These include tests of various reflexes, muscle function and control, and posture and gait.
Laboratory tests are often needed to diagnose the specific problem. Common diagnostic t
A change in an animal’s ability to sense its environment can be caused by disease in either the central nervous system or the peripheral nervous system. The primary signs of nervous system disorders include behavioral changes, seizures, tremors, pain, numbness, lack of coordination, and weakness or paralysis of one or more legs. The effects of an injury on sensory and motor functions depend on its location and severity.
A spinal cord injury can c
The central nervous system includes the spinal cord and the brain. The brain is divided into 3 main sections—the brainstem, which controls many basic life functions, the cerebrum, which is the center of conscious decision-making, and the cerebellum, which is involved in movement and motor control. The spinal cord of cats is divided into regions that