What is veterinary neurology?
Veterinary neurology encompasses any disorder or condition that affects a pet’s nervous system—most notably the brain and spinal cord. The most common neurological disorders in dogs and cats include:
- Brain tumors
- Epilepsy
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD, or disc herniation)
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE, or “missle disc”)
Veterinary neurology disorder symptoms
Pets with these disorders may demonstrate obvious behavior and mobility changes, which may be acute or slowly progressive, and include:
- Front or rear limb paralysis
- Non-orthopedic lameness
- Pronounced weakness
- Seizures
- Ataxia
- Abnormal aggression, fear, or personality change
Veterinary neurology disorder symptoms
Pets with these disorders may demonstrate obvious behavior and mobility changes, which may be acute or slowly progressive, and include:
- Front or rear limb paralysis
- Non-orthopedic lameness
- Pronounced weakness
- Seizures
- Ataxia
- Abnormal aggression, fear, or personality change
The neurological evaluation
When your pet presents at Neighborhood Veterinary Services with a previously diagnosed neurological condition or new neurological signs, our veterinarians will perform a complete neurological examination to assess their reflexes and determine, if possible, the problem’s general location.
After the neurological examination, laboratory tests and imaging are often advised. Imaging may include a referral for an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography) scan. Advanced imaging can further localize your pet’s injury, such as a brain or spinal tumor, or spinal cord compression from a herniated disc.
Neurological surgery and rehabilitation
Operable neurological conditions include disc-related spinal cord compression and some spinal and brain tumors. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention can often ensure the best outcome, although malignant cancer survival times are often limited. Contact Neighborhood Veterinary Centers if you notice any of the above changes in your pet’s mental status, behavior, or mobility.
After surgery, pets are closely monitored for pain and neurological function. Physical rehabilitation is often recommended to accelerate recovery and restore mobility. Neighborhood Veterinary Centers provides in-house rehabilitation options, including laser therapy and underwater treadmill therapy.
