Having your cat diagnosed with cerebellar hypoplasia can be a terrifying experience, but remember that it is not the end of the world. While the health condition may sound sinister, it is painless and not contagious, so you do not need to worry about it. Regardless, you would do well to be informed about cerebellar hypoplasia so you can care for your feline friend appropriately.  

 

What Is Cerebellar Hypoplasia and What Causes It

Despite its terrifying name, Cerebellar hypoplasia is not a fatal disease that threatens the life of your precious kitten. Although, it is not something you can ignore as it will affect your cat's quality of life. It is a condition that occurs when the cerebellum of your cat fails to develop in an appropriate manner. This failed development affects how they conduct themselves and impairs their motor functions, balance, and other bodily activities. It is typically caused by a pregnant cat contracting a nasty infection. At the same time, it is pregnant, resulting in having kittens with this impaired cerebellum. The kittens are highly vulnerable while in the womb, making them highly susceptible to infectious disease!

 

Symptoms of Cerebellar Hypoplasia

The cerebellum of your cat is responsible for many essential functions in their bodies. As a result, this developmental condition changes how a cat would generally behave, which makes the symptoms often highly noticeable. The severity of the symptoms will depend on how affected their development was, though they will all show signs of the impairment. Here are some of the symptoms:

 

 

• Irregular Movement: A kitten suffering from cerebellar hypoplasia would suffer from uncoordinated movement, especially when attempting to walk. They would sway from side to side or walk in a strange stepping manner. It's essential to monitor them and see if they are simply learning how to walk or suffering from this condition. 

• Tremors: Another common symptom of cerebellar hypoplasia is tremors whenever your cat intends to perform an action. It will show itself in the form of shaking whenever your cat tries to do something like eating or playing with a toy. 

 

 

Treatment and Coping

Unfortunately, cerebellar hypoplasia is a brain defect, which means no cure or treatment for the condition. However, there are ways you can help your cat live a happy life despite their disabilities. Kittens can be trained to cope with their impairment and live entire lives without many struggles. They should also be protected as their condition makes them an easy target for harm. It would be best to research their condition and consult experts on how to make their lives as manageable as possible!

 

Help Your Cat Live Struggle Free With The Cat Clinic

The Cat Clinic is a high-quality veterinary service provider capable of catering to the needs of all cats, even those with rare disabilities. As a strictly cat-only facility, our hospital and staff are well equipped and experienced in handling all kinds of different cats. Get in touch with us to see how we can make your feline friend’s life as easy as possible!