PETS’ CORNER
VESTIBULAR SYNDROME
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www maltmancosham www.maltmancosham m co uk m.co.uk Lyons Farm Estate, Lyons Road, Slinfold, Nr Horsham, RH13 0QP
01403 791011 Please mention HORSHAM PAGES South when responding to adverts
his syndrome is caused by a disturbance in the normal function of the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance. Most commonly, it occurs in middle to old age dogs. The cause is not known. The vestibular system controls the animals balance and allows the brain to be able to respond to very subtle positional changes. The symptoms come on very suddenly, most commonly the animal will tilt its head to one side, have difficulty maintaining its balance and the eyes will be flicking from side to side. It often will feel motion sick and may physically vomit. Diagnosis is usually based on typical clinical signs being present; tests can be carried out to rule out other potential causes such as ear infections or true strokes. Straightforward vestibular syndrome carries a very good prognosis for a full recovery. It can be distressing for owners to watch their pets with these symptoms and perseverance is required. The symptoms generally peak in the first few hours and, over the next few days to a week they regain their balance and their appetite tends to return. There is no specific treatment available for this syndrome. Supportive care by keeping your pet calm and comfortable and trying to minimise trauma to them from falling is very important. As vets we can provide medications which may help alleviate some of the clinical signs, such as anti-sickness drugs, and sometimes sedation is required to calm the patient. There are drugs available that improve blood flow to the brain and inner ear and can aid recovery. Tel: 01403 791011. www.maltmancosham.co.uk FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021
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