Concussion In Cats: Signs And Symptoms To Watch For

Cats can get concussions, and it's important to be able to recognise the signs. Concussion symptoms in cats can be vague and subtle, and cats are also known for their ability to hide illness and injury. However, if your cat has sustained a fall or head injury, it's important to contact your veterinarian right away.

Behavioural changes

Cats are very good at hiding their injuries and illnesses, so it can be difficult to spot the signs of a concussion. However, there are some behavioural changes that you can look out for.

If your cat has suffered a head injury, they may become lethargic, wobbly, or unresponsive. They might not react to their name being called, or they might stare into space for an unusually long time. They could also have trouble walking, or experience seizures or vomiting. Any abnormal behaviour is worth checking out.

If you suspect your cat has a concussion, it's important to contact your veterinarian right away to get immediate medical attention. A veterinarian will be able to perform a thorough physical and neurological examination, looking for signs of a concussion such as abnormal eye movements, differently-sized pupils, or an abnormal response of the pupils to light and dark.

Loss of consciousness

If your cat has sustained a fall or head injury, a veterinarian will do a thorough physical and neurological examination. The doctor may see evidence of a concussion by looking into the cat's eyes and noticing abnormal movements called nystagmus, differently sized pupils, or abnormal response of the pupils to light and dark. A veterinarian may also see bleeding in a cat's retinas which can indicate trauma.

However, it is important to note that cats are notorious for their ability to hide illness and injury. This means that a traumatic brain injury may not be apparent unless it is more severe. Other signs of a concussion in cats may include lethargy, wobbliness, vomiting, seizures, or unresponsiveness. If your cat is unresponsive, they may not react to their name being called or may stare into space for an unusually long time.

Unresponsiveness

Cats are very good at hiding their injuries and illnesses, so it can be difficult to spot the signs of a concussion. However, unresponsiveness is one of the key symptoms to look out for. If your cat is unresponsive, they may not react to their name being called, or they may stare into space for an unusually long time. They may also be lethargic, wobbly, or vomit. If you suspect your cat has a concussion, contact your veterinarian right away to get immediate medical attention.

A veterinarian will be able to check for other signs of a concussion, such as abnormal eye movements, differently-sized pupils, or abnormal responses of the pupils to light and dark. They may also see bleeding in your cat's retinas, which can indicate trauma.

If your cat has sustained a fall or head injury, it's crucial to act quickly and seek veterinary help. Even if you're unsure whether your cat is unresponsive or not, it's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to their health.

In addition to unresponsiveness, there are other signs of a concussion in cats that you should be aware of. These can include seizures, trouble walking, and vomiting. Any abnormal behaviour that you notice in your cat is also worth investigating further. Remember that early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in your cat's recovery.

Seizures

Cats can suffer from concussions, which are a type of brain injury. Concussions can cause disruptions in the nervous system, resulting in visible signs of a problem. However, cats are known for their ability to hide injuries and illnesses, so it can be challenging to detect a concussion. Seizures are one of the signs of a concussion in cats. If your cat experiences a seizure, it could indicate a serious underlying issue, and you should seek immediate veterinary attention.

If your cat experiences a seizure, it's crucial to monitor their behaviour closely and take note of any other symptoms they may be exhibiting. Other signs of a concussion in cats can include lethargy, wobbliness, vomiting, or unconsciousness. Additionally, you may notice abnormal eye movements, differently-sized pupils, or unusual responses to light and dark. These signs could indicate head trauma and should not be ignored.

It's important to note that seizures can have various causes, and a concussion is just one potential trigger. Other medical conditions, such as epilepsy or toxins, could also lead to seizures in cats. Therefore, if your cat experiences a seizure, it's essential to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for your cat's health and well-being.

Vomiting

Cats can be very good at hiding their injuries and illnesses, so it can be difficult to spot the signs of a concussion. However, one symptom to look out for is vomiting. If your cat has recently had a fall or head injury and is vomiting, you should contact your veterinarian right away.

As well as vomiting, other signs of a concussion in cats can include lethargy, wobbliness, seizures, and unconsciousness. These symptoms may indicate that your cat has suffered a brain injury and needs immediate medical attention.

It is important to note that not all concussions will result in vomiting. Some cats may show other signs of a concussion, such as unresponsiveness or staring into space for an unusually long time. If you notice any behavioural changes in your cat after a head injury, it is always best to consult a veterinarian.

If your cat has vomited but does not seem to be displaying any other symptoms of a concussion, it is still a good idea to monitor them closely for any changes in behaviour. Cats can be very good at hiding their injuries, so it is important to be vigilant and seek veterinary advice if you have any concerns.

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