Wobbly Kitten Syndrome: What's Going On With Your Fragile Little Feline And What Can You Do About It?
When your cat has a litter of kittens, it should be a time of joy and wonder: Joy at the wonder of these little life forms and wonder at how nature creates them. However, when something isn't right with one of the tiny creatures, your heart sinks. Is it a runt? Will it survive? Should you rush the poor kitten to an animal hospital? If you're seeing a kitten that can't seem to find her footing, wobbling around as if she'd spent hours at the pub, you're likely dealing with Cerebellar Hypoplasia. While this condition only affects a small number of little felines, it creates a big problem for their worried pet-parents.
Understanding Cerebellar Hypoplasia
This condition is generally the result of an infection or malnourishment in the mother cat, which unfortunately translates to an underdeveloped cerebellum. This is the area of the brain in charge of motor movements and skills, talents felines are normally quite adept at.
The Basic Symptoms
Your kitty may look normal, but when she tries to walk, she may fall over sideways, tumble forward, or otherwise be incapable of taking graceful and productive steps. Kittens with Cerebellar Hypoplasia can also suffer from tremors and involuntary muscle movements. No matter what the symptoms, though, you'll know that something isn't quite right.
A Definitive Diagnosis
Take your teetering little one to an animal hospital for a thorough examination. Although an image of the brain itself is required for an absolute diagnosis, your vet may draw an official conclusion based on the physical symptoms alone. The condition can't be passed between kittens, but you may have more than one in the litter afflicted with Wobbly Kitten Syndrome.
What Your Animal Hospital May Do
Sadly, there isn't much a veterinarian can do for an underdeveloped cerebellum. If symptoms are severe enough to diminish the quality of life, you may be forced to consider euthanasia. Many faltering felines can adapt, though, with the help of their kind and loving owners. Your vet will let you know what you can expect as the kitten grows and what special needs, if any, they and you will face as time goes on.
What You Should Do With Your Wobbly Kitten
If your little kitten's condition is mild-to-moderate, there is hope; however, taking on a special needs pet is quite a task. You might keep her for yourself, especially after having ascertained such an in-depth understanding of the disease, in which case, you may need to make adjustments to food and water bowls, the litter box and bed, to ensure they're easily accessible.
If you put her up for adoption, be certain to adequately screen potential parents. You could include literature or give them a lesson and also ask to be able to check on the little one from time to time, either in-person or via social media and other communication channels. No matter what, though, a wobbly kitten needs extra TLC and attention, especially to keep it safe from escaping outdoors, where it wouldn't be able to flee quickly or efficiently from predators or vehicles.
You have some big decisions to make when your little kitten has Cerebellar Hypoplasia. Discuss all the options with your veterinarian and remember that miracles are generally more common than this condition, so anything is possible.
For more information, contact your local pet hospital.