Geriatric Vestibular Disease

Vestibular disease is a non-lifethreatening neurologic problem that occurs in geriatric dogs and cats. The disease typically has a very rapid onset, is worse in 24 hours and then the pets gradually improve.

Signs and Causes

The disease is characterized by a loss of balance, disorientation, head tilt, circling and abnormal eye movement. Affected pets may also vomit due to nausea (as with motion sickness). Most cases of vestibular disease are idiopathic - meaning they just happen for no known reason. Trauma and inner ear infections can lead to vestibular disease as well as brain lesions. These are by far less common causes.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of vestibular disease is based on physical and neurological exam. Blood tests are frequently done to assess the animals overall condition, i.e. kidney function, liver disease, anemia... Specific tests for vestibular disease do not exist.

Treatment

The treatment of idiopathic vestibular disease is mainly supportive care. Most animals benefit form intravenous fluid therapy, especially those suffering from marked nausea. Anti-inflammatory and/or antibiotics may be given in some cases. Anti-vomiting medication can also help. The key factor in recovery is time and preventing dehydration. Any other concurrent disease should also be addressed.

Prognosis

The outcome for most pets with idiopathic vestibular disease is good. Some may be left with a permanent head tilt and may not be as steady on their feet as they had been, but their quality of life should be good.