Spinal Issues in Cats: Causes, Diagnosis & Care Guide

Spinal issues in cats can stem from a variety of causes including congenital malformations, injuries, infections, and other diseases. Many spinal problems seen in cats are due to genetic defects such as sacrococcygeal dysgenesis or thoracic hemivertebra, specific traits passed through certain breeds. Symptoms might show at birth, within a few weeks, or develop slowly over months, making early diagnosis essential for effective management.

The Causes of Spinal Issues in Cats

Understanding the underlying cause of a cat's spinal issue is crucial. Common causes include:

• Congenital malformations: These often involve malformed vertebrae such as hemivertebra (half a vertebra), wedge-shaped vertebra, or fused vertebrae. Cats may have spinal curvatures like lordosis, kyphosis, or scoliosis. Strong genetic traits like sacrococcygeal dysgenesis and variable spinal dysplasia (notably in Manx cats) lead to neurological problems and atypical gait.
• Vertebral abnormalities: Malformation or fusion of the atlas and axis bones near the skull base can compress the spinal cord, causing paralysis or sudden death.
• Spina bifida and myelodysplasia: Conditions involving developmental defects in the lower spine or bone marrow, potentially leading to mobility issues and paralysis.
• Trauma and injury: Accidents such as falls, fights, or vehicle impacts can cause fractures, dislocations, or spinal cord compression.
• Inflammatory or infectious diseases: Some infections, including feline infectious peritonitis, cause spinal cord inflammation (myelitis), resulting in neurological symptoms.
• Tumours: Spinal tumours like lymphosarcoma can compress the spinal cord, causing signs such as limb weakness or paralysis.
• Intervertebral disc disease: Though less common than in dogs, disc issues can compress the spine and cause pain or loss of mobility.

Risk Factors and Breeding Considerations

Inherited spinal issues underscore the importance of responsible breeding. Cats known to suffer from hereditary spinal problems should not be bred to prevent passing on defects. Pregnant cats exposed to toxins, stress, or nutritional deficiencies may also produce offspring with spinal malformations. Ensuring breeding cats are health-checked and cleared by a vet promotes better outcomes.

Diagnosing Spinal Problems in Cats

A thorough veterinary evaluation is key. Vets will take a detailed history including onset and progression of symptoms, and examine the cat's neurological status. Common diagnostic tools include:

• Physical and neurological examination to assess mobility and reflexes.
• Spinal X-rays to identify vertebral abnormalities or fractures.
• Myelography to highlight spinal cord compression; especially used if neurological signs are evident.
• Advanced imaging like CT or MRI scans to get detailed views of soft tissues, discs, and spinal cord.

Treatment Options for Cats with Spinal Issues

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Options include:

• Surgery: Recommended for early-stage spinal cord compression if there is no irreversible damage.
• Conservative management: Complete rest combined with supportive care; this includes pain management, anti-inflammatory drugs, and treating underlying conditions.
• Management of complications: Cats with incontinence or urinary tract infections may require antibiotics and a specialised diet for easy digestion.
• Euthanasia: Sadly, in severe, untreatable cases especially with congenital defects causing paralysis, euthanasia may be the kindest option to prevent suffering.

Living with and Managing Spinal Issues in Cats

Successful treatment usually requires regular veterinary follow-up. Typically, vets schedule check-ups and spinal imaging every four months to monitor progress. Owners must provide home care that might include assistance with toileting and preventing secondary infections.

Supportive measures also involve maintaining a safe environment to avoid further injury and managing diet and hydration for overall health. Cats with spinal issues often need extra attention to quality of life.

Promoting Responsible Cat Ownership

Preventing hereditary spinal problems involves ethical breeding practices. Avoid breeding cats with known congenital spinal defects and promote spaying or neutering to limit passing conditions. Early veterinary care on signs of spinal problems improves prognosis and reduces suffering.

When seeking a new cat, consider adopting from shelters or reputable breeders who test for hereditary conditions. Providing a safe and enriching home environment supports physical and mental wellbeing for all cats.

Find Manx kittens for sale offers opportunities to adopt but also highlights the responsibility to be aware of breed-specific health issues like spinal dysplasia.

Conclusion

Spinal issues in cats cover a broad range of causes from birth defects to trauma and diseases. Recognising symptoms early, obtaining accurate veterinary diagnosis, and following tailored treatment or management plans are crucial. Ethical breeding and responsible ownership play vital roles in reducing the occurrence of hereditary spinal disorders. With attentive care and regular vet support, many cats with spinal challenges can enjoy a good quality of life.