Cat’s and Brain Strokes
Strokes in cats are rare, but they can happen. A stroke is a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain, which can damage brain tissue. Symptoms of a stroke in a cat can include:
- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
- Difficulty walking or coordination
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Changes in behavior, such as aggression or confusion
- Head tilt
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
If you see any of these symptoms in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian immediately. The sooner your cat receives treatment, the better their chances of recovery.
There are a number of things that can increase the risk of a stroke in a cat, including:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Thyroid disease
- Cancer
- Trauma
- Drug use
If your cat has any of these risk factors, it is important to talk to your veterinarian about ways to reduce their risk of a stroke.
There is no cure for a stroke, but there are treatments that can help to improve your cat's quality of life. Treatment may include:
- Medication to control blood pressure, heart rate, and blood sugar levels
- Physical therapy to help your cat regain their strength and coordination
- Occupational therapy to help your cat learn how to use their body again
- Dietary changes to help improve your cat's overall health
With proper care, most cats who have a stroke can live a normal life.