The neurology of balance: function and dysfunction of the vestibular system in dogs and cats

Vet J. 2010 Sep;185(3):247-58. doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2009.10.029. Epub 2009 Nov 26.

Abstract

Disorders affecting the vestibular system are a common neurological problem encountered in small animal practice. As a result, veterinarians are often faced with determining the underlying etiology of affected animals. In order to establish an accurate etiological diagnosis, proper interpretation of neurological deficits and precise neuroanatomical localization are essential. Neurological examination can confirm whether the vestibular dysfunction is of peripheral or central nervous system origin. Peripheral vestibular diseases include idiopathic vestibular syndrome, which has some similarities with vestibular neuritis in humans. Central vestibular diseases in general have a poor prognosis in comparison to those affecting the peripheral vestibular system.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cat Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Cat Diseases / etiology
  • Cats
  • Dog Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Dog Diseases / etiology
  • Dogs
  • Neurologic Examination / veterinary
  • Vestibular Diseases / diagnosis
  • Vestibular Diseases / etiology
  • Vestibular Diseases / veterinary*
  • Vestibular Function Tests / veterinary*
  • Veterinary Medicine