Cerebellar degeneration is a serious neurological condition affecting dogs that can lead to abnormal gait, tremors, swaying, and head tilt. It is important for pet owners to be aware of the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of this condition.
This article provides an overview of cerebellar degeneration in dogs, including how to identify the symptoms and what treatments are available.
Symptoms of Cerebellar Degeneration in Dogs
Common symptoms of Cerebellar Degeneration in Dogs include an abnormal gait, broad-based stance, swaying, muscle tremors, and head tilt.
Dogs with Cerebellar Degeneration may have a goose-step type of gait involving their front legs, a broad-based stance while standing, and swaying when trying to move in a straight line. They may also display muscle tremors, especially while eating, and a head tilt.
These symptoms can be seen in certain breeds of dogs, such as Irish setters and wire-haired fox terriers, that have a genetic predisposition for this condition.
Diagnosis requires an MRI, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and, sometimes, a biopsy of the cerebellum.
Causes of Cerebellar Degeneration in Dogs
Two possible causes of cerebellar degeneration in dogs are infection with canine herpesvirus and a genetic predisposition in certain breeds. Canine herpesvirus can be contracted in utero or as a neonate, and can be linked to cerebellar degeneration later in life. Certain breeds, such as Irish setters and wire-haired fox terriers, have been found to have a greater chance of developing the condition due to their unique genetic makeup.
A diagnosis of cerebellar degeneration can be made via MRI, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, or a biopsy of the cerebellum. Treatment is limited, but medications such as amantidine, buspirone, co-enzyme Q10, and acetyl-l-carnitine may be prescribed. It is also important to provide nursing care and restrict activities to safe areas in order to prevent further complications.
Diagnosis of Cerebellar Degeneration in Dogs
Diagnosis of this condition in dogs can be made through MRI, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, or a biopsy of the cerebellum. MRI imaging may reveal a smaller cerebellum than usual. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis can be either normal or abnormal. Biopsy of the cerebellum is considered to be the definitive diagnosis of cerebellar degeneration in dogs.
Routine blood and urine tests may also be conducted to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. Veterinarians must use a combination of diagnostic approaches to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
With the right diagnosis, the best course of treatment can be determined to help manage the condition.
Treatment of Cerebellar Degeneration in Dogs
Treatment of this condition in dogs is limited, as there is no curative option available. However, there are medications that may help to improve the symptoms of cerebellar degeneration in dogs. These include amantidine, buspirone, coenzyme Q10, and acetyl-l-carnitine.
Care must be taken to ensure the correct dose and the appropriateness of the medication for the individual dog’s needs. In some cases, physical assistance may be necessary to help the dog eat or maintain hygiene.
It is important to restrict the dog’s activities to safe areas, as poor coordination and decision making can lead to accidental injury.
Living and Management With Cerebellar Degeneration in Dogs
It is important to provide nursing care and restrict the dog’s activities to keep them safe and healthy when living with cerebellar degeneration. This involves avoiding stairs, sharp objects, swimming pools, and other dangers. Instead, physical aid may be required for eating.
Additionally, the dog should be kept in a safe area at all times. This will help reduce the risk of injury due to poor coordination and decision making. To maintain cleanliness, regular baths and brushing should be done.
