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144 results for “neurological signs”
Canine and Feline Otitis Media and Interna
Otitis media and interna are inflammation of the middle and inner ear, usually arising when severe outer-ear infection spreads inward. Left untreated, inner-ear disease can damage balance and facial nerves and, in the worst case, progress to meningitis.
Ataxia Syndrome in Dogs and Cats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Ataxia syndrome is incoordination of the limbs from disease of the central nervous system, peripheral nerves, or the limbs themselves, often secondary to infection, poisoning, or inflammation. Signs vary by cause - from whole-body illness to local swelling, fracture, or tendon rupture. Treatment targets the underlying disease.
Lumbar Sprain in Dogs and Cats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
A lumbar sprain is injury to the lower-back muscles, ligaments, and spinal joints from sudden over-contraction or trauma, most common in small breeds and pets with rickets or nutritional deficiency. Signs range from a stiff arched back and weak hind limbs to, in severe cases, paralysis and loss of bowel or bladder control. Prompt rest and veterinary care prevent lasting nerve damage.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) Deficiency in Dogs and Cats
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) deficiency in dogs and cats impairs hemoglobin synthesis and nerve function, causing microcytic hypochromic anemia, poor appetite, skin inflammation, and seizures or ataxia. It is corrected with pyridoxine and a balanced diet.
Polyradiculoneuritis (Acute Polyneuritis) in Dogs and Cats
Polyradiculoneuritis is an inflammation of multiple nerve roots that causes flaccid paralysis, sometimes including the respiratory muscles. Its cause is uncertain but may be autoimmune, and most pets recover over three to six weeks with supportive care.
Atlantoaxial Instability in Dogs and Cats
Atlantoaxial instability is a misalignment of the first two neck vertebrae that compresses the cervical spinal cord, causing neck pain, stiffness, and incoordination. It may follow trauma or be congenital, and severe cases can cause respiratory paralysis and death if untreated.
Cervical Spondylomyelopathy (Wobbler Syndrome) in Dogs and Cats
Cervical spondylomyelopathy, also called Wobbler syndrome, is a progressive compression of the cervical spinal cord that causes weakening and incoordination of all four limbs. It is most often seen in young Great Danes and middle-aged to older Dobermans, and both conservative and surgical care may be needed.
Myelitis and Meningomyelitis in Dogs and Cats
Myelitis and meningomyelitis are inflammations of the spinal cord and its surrounding membranes, often secondary to infection or trauma. They cause fever, pain, and progressive weakness or paralysis, and treatment must eliminate the underlying cause while controlling inflammation.
Bladder Paralysis (Atony) in Dogs and Cats
Bladder paralysis is loss of normal bladder contraction, usually from a urethral blockage, bladder spasm, or spinal or brain injury, so urine pools and cannot be expelled. Signs range from frequent dribbling to silent, involuntary leakage. Veterinary care and assisted emptying prevent a dangerously overfull bladder.
Rabies: Symptoms, Transmission, and the Critical Importance of Vaccination
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the brain and spinal cord of mammals, including dogs, cats, and humans. It spreads through the bite of an infected animal and causes fear of water, light, and progressive paralysis. Prevention through vaccination is the only reliable defense.