Know the Signs of a Cat Stroke Before It’s Too Late
Although dogs are more prone to strokes than cats, the risk of your feline experiencing it is still exists, especially if your furry fall has gained some weight recently. Owners shouldn’t disregard memory issues and dizziness with their furry friends, as these point out to mild cat stroke.
Today, we are going to cover some of the common signs of a stroke, preventative methods, and treatment solutions to this life-threatening condition. Yet, it is highly advisable to take your cat to a vet, as this requires urgent attention.
What Is a Stroke?
Once a feline experiences narrowing of the blood vessels, this occurrence inhibits with the regular flow of the oxygen and blood to the brain. This, further, causes the death of the brain cells.
However, not all of the brain cells have to be affected by a stroke. Stroke in cats has neurological effects on the animal’s walking or general alertness.
The Most Common Causes of a Stroke in Cats
Anything lodged in cat’s blood vessels – blood cloths, parasites, bacteria, even tumors can inhibit the optimal oxygen and blood flow. The most common of a stroke in cats is one of the following underlying diseases:
- Hypertension,
- Heart disease,
- Hypothyroidism,
- Bleeding disorders,
- Cancer.
Symptoms of a Cat Stroke
Although the following signs can’t surefire guarantee a cat stroke, if you notice any of these symptoms make sure to get in touch with your vet immediately.
A feline that loses appetite all of a sudden, tilts their head without reason, loses bladder control, limps on their front leg or drags their legs along, makes other abnormal movements, or meow and yowl in pain, is highly likely it had a stroke.
Do This If Your Feline Is Having a Stroke
Contact your vet or the emergency vet urgently. If your kitty is experiencing a serious stroke, the vet will undertake a cardiac evaluation. Once they determine the cause of a stroke, the vet will suggest a treatment plan including physical therapy, provision of oxygen, medications, etc.
Getting your feline back on their feet may take time, as stoke recovery usually involves going through different stages. You, as a pet parent, already have a central role in your cat’s life, but now is the time when they needing you the most.
Prevention
The main thing to do to prevent stroke with cats is to stave off obesity. Make sure your feline is on a high-quality diet that includes a lot of proteins and combine it with some exercise. Limiting stressors in your kitty’s environment is as important, as well as taking it to annual medical exams at the vet.
Summary
Simple precaution measures can help a lot with preventing your furry ball from experiencing a stroke. Yet, make sure to keep a close eye on your feline’s physical condition and behavioral changes. It’s always better to be safe than sorry so take action if needed and consult the vet in case of any doubt.
