Polyneuropathy in Cats

Feline Polyneuropathy

Polyneuropathies are a group of diseases that affect multiple nerves in any combination. They may be inherited or acquired later in life.

Inherited Causes of Polyneuropathy in Cats

Acquired Causes of Polyneuropathy in Cats

Infectious Causes of Polyneuropathy in Cats

Metabolic Causes of Polyneuropathy in Cats

Toxic or Drugs Causes

Various breeds of cats may be affected. Specific breeds are associated with specific inherited neuropathies.

Inherited polyneuropathies generally begin by the age of 6 months, while acquired neuropathies, depending on the specific disorder, may be seen in all ages.

What to Watch For

Signs associated with inherited polyneuropathies are generally slow and progressive.

Signs associated with acquired polyneuropathies may progress rapidly or slowly, depending on the particular illness.

Diagnosis of Polyneuropathy in Cats

Treatment of Polyneuropathy in Cats

Home Care

Administer all medication and diet as directed by your veterinarian. If any change is noted in your pet’s condition, notify your veterinarian. In particular, if coughing or difficulty breathing is observed, contact your veterinarian at once, as this may signal aspiration pneumonia secondary to a malfunctioning esophagus.

Depending on the underlying cause, life long therapy may be necessary in these patients. It is important to realize that although in some cases where an underlying disorder has been identified and treated the associated polyneuropathy will resolve, in others, despite treatment, it may not.

Avoid breeding patients with inherited disease.