Polyneuropathy in cats - an overview

Polyneuropathy in cats is a disease that affects the peripheral nervous system, which consists of the nerves that lie outside the brain and spinal cord. This disease can have various causes, including genetic predisposition, infections, toxins, metabolic disorders or immune-mediated processes. The symptoms and severity of the disease can vary greatly, but they usually affect the cat's motor and sensory functions.

Symptoms of polyneuropathy in cats

Polyneuropathy is a complex disease that affects the peripheral nervous system of cats and can cause a variety of symptoms. The severity and type of symptoms can vary depending on the nerves affected and the degree of damage.

Motor symptoms

Weakness and muscle wasting:

One of the most noticeable changes in cats with polyneuropathy is weakness, especially in the hind legs. The cats have difficulty jumping, walking stiffly and in severe cases can even develop paralysis. Over time, visible muscle loss can occur.

Gait changes:

The animals often show an unsteady, swaying gait and may have difficulty maintaining their balance.

Tremble:

Some cats develop tremors in the affected limbs, which may increase with movement.

Sensory symptoms

Pain reactions:

Cats with polyneuropathy may exhibit altered responses to painful stimuli, either in the form of hypersensitivity or reduced pain perception.

Tactile sensations:

The tactile sensations can also be impaired, so that the cats can no longer really feel when they are being touched or walking on a surface.

Autonomic symptoms

Bladder and bowel function:

In some cases, the nerves responsible for bladder and bowel control may also be affected, which can lead to incontinence.

Breathing problems:

In severe cases, the nerves that control breathing may also be affected, causing difficulty breathing.

Other symptoms

General weakness:

The cats may be generally lethargic and show a reduced interest in their surroundings.

Loss of appetite:

There may also be a decrease in appetite due to general weakness and malaise.

Weight loss:

Combined with loss of appetite and muscle loss, significant weight loss can occur.

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Are there racially specific predispositions to polyneuropathy in cats?

Yes, there are some cat breeds that may have a higher predisposition to polyneuropathy due to their genetic predisposition. It is important to emphasize that not all cats of these breeds will be affected, and the disease can also occur in mixed breed cats.

Maine Coon and polyneuropathy

One of the breeds known to be susceptible to polyneuropathy is the Maine Coon. This large and robust-looking breed can develop a specific form of polyneuropathy characterized by weakness, muscle wasting and, in some cases, impaired gait coordination. This form of polyneuropathy is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning that only one affected parent can pass the disease on to their offspring.

Devon Rex and Sphynx

The Devon Rex and the Sphynx, two breeds with unique fur and near-hairlessness, respectively, can also develop a specific form of hereditary polyneuropathy. In these breeds, the disease often manifests itself in the form of muscle weakness and coordination problems.

Important measures for breeders and cat owners

It is critical for breeders to carefully monitor the health of their breeding lines and perform genetic testing to minimize the spread of hereditary forms of polyneuropathy. Cat owners who want to purchase a pedigree cat should contact reputable breeders who are transparent about the health of their animals and are willing to provide genetic test results.

Final thoughts

Although some breeds may show a higher susceptibility to polyneuropathy, it is important to emphasize that this does not mean that all cats of these breeds will be affected. With careful breeding practices, regular health checks and careful observation by the cat owner, many cats can lead healthy and happy lives, even if they are genetically predisposed.

Diagnosis of polyneuropathy in cats

Diagnosis of polyneuropathy in cats requires a comprehensive veterinary examination and a series of tests to evaluate symptoms and rule out other medical conditions. Here is a detailed overview of the diagnostic process:

1. Medical history:

To begin, the veterinarian take a thorough medical history. Questions are asked about the cat's history, the first signs of the disease, possible triggers and the development of the symptoms. Information about diet, lifestyle and previous illnesses is also important.

2. Clinical examination:

A thorough clinical examination is then carried out. The veterinarian will check the cat for general signs of illness, paying particular attention to the nervous system. He will check the cat's reflexes, muscle strength and tone, coordination, and pain responses.

3. Neurological examination:

A specific neurological examination is crucial for the diagnosis of polyneuropathy. This involves testing different parts of the nervous system to determine which areas are affected.

4. Blood tests:

Blood tests can help rule out other diseases and provide clues to the cause of polyneuropathy. This includes a complete blood count, a biochemical profile, and possibly specific tests for infections or other diseases.

5. Imaging procedures:

In some cases, the veterinarian may order imaging tests such as x-rays, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to provide more information about the cat's condition.

6. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity measurement (NLG):

These special tests measure the electrical activity in the muscles and the speed at which nerve impulses are transmitted. They can help determine the severity of polyneuropathy and locate the affected area of ​​the nervous system.

7. Biopsy:

In some cases, a biopsy of nerve or muscle tissue may be necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and to differentiate between different types of polyneuropathy.

8. Genetic Testing:

Genetic testing is available for some specific forms of polyneuropathy that may occur in certain breeds.

Final rating:

After completing all necessary tests, the veterinarian will evaluate all results and perform a comprehensive evaluation to make an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Importance of early diagnosis:

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for successful management of polyneuropathy and can help maintain or improve the cat's quality of life. It is important to seek veterinary care immediately at the first signs of weakness or other neurological symptoms.

Treatment options for polyneuropathy in cats differentiated according to the causes

Treatment for polyneuropathy in cats depends largely on the underlying cause. Here is a detailed overview of the various treatment options, differentiated according to causes:

1. Infectious causes:

If an infection has caused the polyneuropathy, the veterinarian will prescribe appropriate antibiotics or antiviral medications. It is crucial to treat the infection quickly to prevent further damage to the nervous system.

2. Toxic causes:

If polyneuropathy is due to poisoning, it is important to quickly remove the toxic substance from the cat's body. This can be done through induced vomiting, administration of activated charcoal or other detoxification measures.

3. Metabolic diseases:

In the case of polyneuropathies caused by metabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, the focus is on controlling the underlying disease. A special diet, medication and regular blood sugar monitoring may be required.

4. Nutritional Causes:

A lack of certain nutrients can also trigger polyneuropathies. In such cases, an adjustment to the diet and, if necessary, supplementation of missing nutrients is necessary.

5. Inflammatory and autoimmune causes:

Inflammatory and autoimmune polyneuropathies can be treated with immunosuppressants and anti-inflammatory drugs. In some cases, administration of immunoglobulins may also be helpful.

6. Idiopathic polyneuropathy:

If no specific cause for the polyneuropathy can be found, it is called idiopathic polyneuropathy. In such cases, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the cat's quality of life. Physiotherapy and supportive measures can be helpful.

7. Supportive measures:

Regardless of the cause, supportive measures are an important part of treatment. This includes physical therapy, pain management and, if necessary, aids such as stretchers or ramps to improve the cat's mobility.

Current research at the LMU Munich on neuropathy in cats

Successful treatment of immune-mediated polyneuropathies in young cats using human immunoglobulins: A detailed overview

Veterinary practice and research have made significant advances in the diagnosis and treatment of immune-mediated polyneuropathies (PN) in young cats in recent years. This disease, which has a clear parallel to juvenile chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) in humans, leads to generalized weakness, paraparesis and, in severe cases, non-ambulatory quadriparesis in affected animals.

Clinical picture and symptoms

Immune-mediated polyneuropathy is characterized by progressive weakness of the extremities, with the hind limbs particularly affected. The animals show reduced flexor reflexes and have difficulty moving. The course of the disease can progress rapidly in the early stages, although the further development of the disease varies from animal to animal and can range from remissions to relapses.

Diagnosis and therapeutic approaches

In human medicine, the treatment of CIDP with human intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIg) has proven to be a successful therapeutic option. In veterinary medicine, however, this treatment method for cats is still relatively new and unexplored. In our case series, we documented the disease progression of six young cats with immune-mediated polyneuropathies that were treated with IVIg between 2018 and 2022.

Case studies and treatment results

The six cats included in the study were between six months and 2.5 years old. All animals exhibited symptoms typical of immune-mediated polyneuropathies, and three of them underwent further investigations such as electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction velocity measurements (NLG), and muscle and nerve biopsies. Treatment consisted of intravenous administration of human immunoglobulins at a dosage of 0.5 g/kg/day for two to four consecutive days. No side effects were observed and all six cats showed significant clinical improvement within two to ten days of the first treatment.

Conclusion and outlook

The present results suggest that treatment with human immunoglobulins could represent a promising therapeutic option for cats with severe or chronic courses of immune-mediated polyneuropathies. However, further research and clinical trials are needed to determine the long-term effects and optimal treatment protocol for this therapy.

How is the prognosis for polyneuropathy in cats differentiated according to the cause of the disease?

The prognosis of polyneuropathy in cats can vary greatly and is largely dependent on the underlying cause of the disease, the stage of the disease at diagnosis and the response to the treatment initiated.

1. Infectious causes: In polyneuropathy caused by an infection, the prognosis is often favorable if the infection is recognized early and treated effectively. In such cases, antibiotics or antiviral medications can fight the infection and restore nerve function.

2. Toxic causes: If polyneuropathy in cats is caused by exposure to toxins, the prognosis depends on the speed of diagnosis and the removal of the toxic substance. In some cases, nerve function can be completely restored, but in other cases permanent damage may remain.

3. Metabolic causes: Polyneuropathy due to metabolic diseases requires long-term management and control of the underlying disease. With successful adjustment, the symptoms of polyneuropathy can often be alleviated or stabilized and the cat's quality of life can be improved.

4. Diet-related causes: The prognosis for diet-related polyneuropathy is usually very good, provided that the nutrient deficiencies are recognized and corrected early.

5. Inflammatory and autoimmune causes: These forms of polyneuropathy can be challenging and often require long-term immunosuppressive therapy. The prognosis is variable, and while some cats respond well to treatment and show significant improvement, others may develop a chronic course or relapse.

6. Idiopathic polyneuropathy: In idiopathic polyneuropathy, where no clear cause can be found, the prognosis is uncertain. The focus here is on symptomatic treatment and improving quality of life. Some cats may have a good quality of life, while others may require longer-term support and management.

Overall, early diagnosis and specific treatment are crucial for an improved prognosis in cat polyneuropathy. Close collaboration between pet owners and veterinarians plays an important role in achieving the best possible results for affected cats.

Support for affected cats and their owners

For cat owners whose animals are affected by polyneuropathy, it is important to maintain a close relationship with their veterinarian and to be well informed about the disease. There are also various support groups and resources that can offer help and advice.

The prognosis for cats with polyneuropathy depends on the specific cause of the disease and the severity of symptoms. However, many cats can live full lives with the right care and support.

Summary of polyneuropathy in cats

Polyneuropathy in cats is a complex disease that affects the peripheral nervous system and can cause a variety of symptoms. In feline polyneuropathy, both motor and sensory nerves can be affected, causing weakness, muscle wasting, and coordination problems. It is important to emphasize that polyneuropathy in cats is treatable in many cases, especially if the underlying cause is identified and addressed early.

The diagnosis of polyneuropathy in cats requires a comprehensive clinical examination and can be supported by various diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, imaging tests and, if necessary, nerve biopsies. Treatment of polyneuropathy in cats depends on the specific cause of the disease but may include medication, physiotherapy and, in some cases, surgery.

For infectious causes of polyneuropathy in cats, antibiotic or antiviral therapies are often essential. In the case of toxic polyneuropathy in cats, the focus is on eliminating the toxic substance. Metabolic forms of polyneuropathy in cats require careful management and control of the underlying disease, while nutritional polyneuropathy in cats can be treated by adjusting the diet and supplementing nutrients.

Inflammatory and autoimmune forms of polyneuropathy in cats may require immunosuppressive therapy. In some cases, treatment with immunoglobulins has also been shown to be effective. In idiopathic polyneuropathy in cats, where no clear cause can be found, the focus is on symptomatic treatment and improving quality of life.

In summary, polyneuropathy in cats is a serious disease that requires early and comprehensive diagnosis and treatment. However, with proper treatment and supportive measures, many cats with polyneuropathy can live full and comfortable lives. It is crucial that pet owners seek immediate veterinary advice if their cat suspects polyneuropathy to ensure the best chance of success for their beloved four-legged friends.