by: Laura Vasquez, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology)

It is a common misconception that dogs get neurologic disorders more commonly than cats.  

When presented with an encephalopathic cat, differentials to consider should be based on signalment, history, examination, and minimum data base.  

Below are differentials to consider.

Most Common:

  • Vascular events
  • Neoplasia - lymphoma, meningioma
  • Infection– FIP, Toxoplasmosis, Cryptococcosis, bacterial abscess
  • Otitis media/interna

Common:

  • Idiopathic vestibular syndrome
  • Idiopathic epilepsy
  • Metabolic - uremia, diabetes mellitus/ketoacidosis, hyperthyroidism, thiamine deficiency
  • Toxins -pyrethrins, permethrins

 

Although possible, non-infectious encephalitis is uncommon in cats compared to dogs. Infections should always be considered first.