Vestibular Disease in Cats

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                      General Information



Vestibular disease is a disturbance of the cat's vestibular or

balancing and orientation system.  With vestibular disease, the

cat's head is tilted to one side, the eyes move back and forth

very rapidly, and walking is unsteady and awkward.  When

walking, the cat usually drifts to the side to which the head

tilts.



This disease occurs most frequently during the late summer and

fall, and its onset is sudden.  The cause of the disease is

unknown, but most cats recover within 2-6 weeks.  Because other

conditions, such as middle ear infections or brain disorders,

may cause similar signs, various blood tests and radiographs

(x-rays) may be necessary to establish the diagnosis.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



2.  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





3.  Activity:  It is essential that your cat be kept indoors

    while its ability to move is impaired.  Allowing the cat to

    go outdoors could result in severe injury from automobiles,

    dogs, etc.  Confine your cat to an area of the house where

    it will be safe from stairs, open windows and high ledges,

    etc.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your cat has fainting spells, convulsions or seizures.



    * Your cat's signs worsen.



    * Your cat's signs recur after an apparent recovery.