Feline Paralysis: Weakness, Loss of Mobility & Treatment

Causes of paralysis in cats: spinal cord problems in cats are usually caused by

• Tumors, such as lymphoma
• Intervertebral disc disease
• Injury
• Inflammation, especially from FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis) virus

As for blood clot problems like Arterial Thromboembolism, while not caused by the spinal cord, this can also lead to paralysis and is commonly found as well. So when a cat is found to be paralyzed, a physical exam, bloodwork, and viral disease screening should always be performed.

Symptoms of Paralysis in Cats

• Weak legs, stumbling while walking
• While walking, the cat's paw doesn't flip to place the sole down normally, but instead walks on the top of the paw
• Unable to get up, unable to control their own bowel movements
• Some cats show signs of pain when touched

Treatment Steps

Once you bring your cat in to see the veterinarian, they will take a thorough history, including vaccination history, living environment, number of cats in the household, and regular diet.

Once this information is gathered, the cat's health examination begins with the following methods:

• Blood test
• Viral disease screening
• Neurological examination, to identify which part of the nervous system is affected (brain, cervical, cervicothoracic, thoracolumbar, lumbosacral, or even the neuromuscular unit)
• Spinal X-ray, since some problems can be diagnosed from X-ray film alone, but if no abnormality is found, 3D imaging may be needed, using a CT scan or MRI.

Many cases are treated with medication, but some cases require surgical correction, such as displaced vertebrae, tumors, or herniated discs. Cats are animals that don't like to show signs of illness to anyone,

so if you notice your cat sleeping more or playing less than usual, this could be a sign that something is wrong. Bring them in for a checkup promptly, before it's too late.