Brain disease in dogs & cats
Introduction to Brain diseases in pets
The brain is the body’s control center. When a pet develops a brain disorder, it can affect movement, behavior, alertness, and more. It’s completely normal to feel worried when a dog or cat shows possible neurologic signs. The good news is that many brain diseases in pets are treatable, and some can even be cured.
Symptoms of brain disease in pets
If a pet develops new neurologic symptoms or if existing symptoms worsen, it’s important to consult a veterinary neurology team. These signs can be associated with many different types of brain disease in dogs and cats. Common symptoms include:
Changes in personality
Becoming stuck in corners
Loss of previously learned behaviors or training
Difficulty staying awake
Trouble sleeping
Challenges with walking
Circling behavior
Sudden onset of blindness
Problems with eating, drinking, or swallowing
Becoming stuck in corners is one possible sign of brain disease in dogs and cats.
Urgent signs requiring immediate veterinary attention
If a pet shows any of the symptoms below, seek emergency veterinary care immediately:
More than two seizures in a day, unless a veterinary team has provided specific instructions otherwise
A seizure that lasts longer than five minutes
Inability to stand or walk
Difficulty or inability to eat or drink
Unconsciousness, especially if a pet cannot be roused
Persistently pressing the head against a wall or other surfaces
Continuous howling, barking, or crying that does not subside when comforted
Sudden, uncharacteristic aggressive behavior
Diagnosing Brain Disease in Pets
Diagnosing the specific cause of brain disease in dogs and cats is an essential step in veterinary neurology because it guides prognosis and treatment options. Outcomes can vary widely depending on the underlying condition:
Strokes: Some pets with strokes may improve over time without extensive intervention.
Infections and certain inflammatory diseases: These can often be fully cured with appropriate medication.
Hydrocephalus or brain tumors: While not typically curable, treatment can focus on improving and extending quality of life.
Untreatable conditions: Unfortunately, some brain diseases are fatal regardless of treatment.
Because there are many possible causes of neurologic symptoms, it’s not possible to predict how a pet will do without a specific diagnosis. Identifying the underlying cause of a pet’s brain symptoms helps a veterinary neurologist recommend the most appropriate next steps.
Common Brain Diseases in Dogs & Cats
Below is a list of common brain diseases that can cause neurologic signs in dogs and cats:
Understanding Prognosis & Treatability of Brain Diseases in Pets
A pet’s prognosis largely depends on identifying the specific cause of its brain disease. Treatment options and expected outcomes can vary widely by condition:
Strokes (vascular events): Some pets with strokes may improve over time without extensive medical intervention.
Infections and certain inflammatory diseases: These can often be cured with the appropriate medication.
Hydrocephalus or brain tumors: While not always curable, treatment focuses on improving quality of life and extending the time a pet feels well.
Untreatable conditions: Sadly, some brain diseases are fatal regardless of medical efforts.
Because outcomes can vary widely, a precise diagnosis is essential for providing an accurate prognosis and guiding the most appropriate treatment.
Ongoing Monitoring & Follow-Up Care
Whether a pet proceeds with diagnostics, treatment, or both, regular veterinary checkups are important for monitoring neurologic symptoms and overall comfort. These visits allow a veterinarian to check for new signs, discuss possible medication adjustments, and recommend blood work and urinalysis to evaluate for medication side effects. Keeping a veterinary team updated on changes at home helps support a pet’s health and quality of life.
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Common Medications
Not all pets will be on these medication, but this is a list of frequently used medications. The medical team will discuss what’s appropriate for your pet.
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