Page 914 - Problem-Based Feline Medicine

PART 11

Cat with an abnormal gait

42. The weak and ataxic or paralyzed cat

Paul A Cuddon

KEY SIGNS

● Incoordination and decreased proprioception (misplacement or knuckling of the
foot).
● Weakness of one or more limbs (feet cross or are placed too far apart).
● Complete loss of any voluntary movement (paralyzed).

MECHANISM?
● Ataxia and paresis occurs when there is physical or functional disruption to both the
motor and sensory pathways of the nervous system.
● This can occur at any point along the neuraxis from the cerebrum to the peripheral nervous
system.
WHERE?
● Cats solely presenting with ataxia and paresis/paralysis most commonly have spinal cord
disease.
WHAT?
● The most common causes of spinal cord ataxia and paresis in cats are
infection/inflammation and trauma.

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