My Cat Seemed Drunk Then He Was Fine

by Jo
(UK)

Hi,

My cat just came to me scrambling almost drunk. He could barely walk a few paces then he would fall as if off balance and it seemed to be caused by his back legs.

He didn't cry and when I put him on the chair to feel for broken bones he showed no sign of pain. He just purred.

Now he is eating and chasing his favorite cat toy. Any ideas?


Hi, Jo,

Your cat's behavior could have been the result of a heart/circulatory problem or a neurological issue, including the possibility of a seizure. I would suggest taking him to the veterinarian for a check-up.

Kindest Regards,
Dr. Neely

My Cat Goes Limp

QUESTION

We have a six year old cat, who seems to go limp for a few seconds almost as if she were dead. This has only happened recently.


ANSWER

What you describe sounds most like seizure activity or a cardiovascular event, both of which are, of course, serious. If she is truly unaware and non-responsive for even a couple of seconds, she should be seen by a vet right away.

Thank you.
Dr. Neely

Feline Vestibular Syndrome

Hi!

5 weeks ago our cat was diagnosed with the syndrome. Doctor said he should be fine within a month. He tilts his head and cannot hear. Can walk okay, but into walls. His appetite is fine. He was born blind.

Could it be much more serious than feline vestibular syndrome? Like a stroke?

Thank-you for your help!




Hi,

I would need a little more information to best answer you. You say he was born blind, so I assume walking into walls is from that and is not new? Or is that a new development?

I need to know how old he is and anything else you can tell me about his medical history.

What made you take him to the vet?
What were his signs? Did they come on suddenly?
Is he on any medication?

Anything and everything you can tell me about him will be helpful.

Was he deaf before this diagnosis or is this recent?

Cats with idiopathic vestibular disease will recover within a few weeks, but often are left with a head tilt for life.

Were his ears checked thoroughly? Have there been problems with his ears in the past?

It is unlikely that he suffered a "stroke" from what you tell me, but again I need to know more about his symptoms and how and when things happened. Feel free to write back.

Thank you,
Dr. Neely