Skip to content

Sistema nervioso

Vestibular syndrome

A disturbance of the balance system. It is very frightening because it comes on suddenly, but many cases (especially in older dogs) recover well.

Severe🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

See your vet promptly if your pet tilts its head, loses its balance or has moving eyes. Although it is frightening, many cases have a good prognosis.

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Head tilted to one side
  • • Loss of balance, staggering, falling over
  • • Rapid, involuntary eye movements (nystagmus)
  • • Circling or rolling to one side
  • • Nausea, vomiting
  • • Disorientation

Causes

Peripheral vestibular: ear infections, idiopathic vestibular syndrome of the older dog (cause unknown, good prognosis). Central vestibular: problems in the brain (more serious). In cats, it is sometimes linked to infections.

Diagnosis

A neurological examination to determine whether it is peripheral or central. Depending on the case, otoscopy, blood tests or an MRI scan.

Treatment

Treating the underlying cause (e.g. the ear infection) plus supportive care (controlling nausea, help with eating/drinking). Idiopathic vestibular syndrome in the older dog usually improves greatly within days to weeks.

Prevention

Treat ear infections promptly.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet promptly if your pet tilts its head, loses its balance or has moving eyes. Although it is frightening, many cases have a good prognosis.

Consult a vet24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

Wallapets Sign in