Can Cats Have Strokes? What Are the Signs?
Strokes in cats are often related to high blood pressure secondary to some other medical conditions like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or stress.
Did My Cat Have a Stroke?
"Can cats have strokes? My 15-year-old cat looks and acts like she had a stroke. Her eyes are equal and reactive, her breathing is normal, and she has some weakness in her right hindquarters. But she doesn't seem to recognize me or her surroundings, and she won't eat (very unusual for her).
We found her two days ago in the yard near our bamboo, where the cats usually go to potty. She was acting like she was in pain, and I thought she might have been bitten by a snake, but I don't see any evidence of a bite. We brought her inside and she has been lethargic ever since.
She was significantly more alert this morning and even managed to jump up on the countertop. She still seems disoriented, but she's improving. She is urinating and will drink small amounts of water, but she seems uninterested in food (again, this is unusual for her).
I cannot afford to take her to the vet because I know the vet bill to diagnose her would include labs, x-rays, and other expensive procedures. I hesitate to ask you, but you are kind enough to answer questions like these. Thank you so much." —Lela
Strokes in Senior Cats
Yes, strokes can be a problem in senior cats for several reasons. One of the main ones is that older cats may suffer from high blood pressure secondary to some other medical conditions like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and stress. They are a lot more common when cats have heart disease, diabetes or liver disease, and are obese.
Signs Your Cat Is Having a Stroke
The clinical signs of a stroke can vary, and I am not sure she has had a stroke based on your description. In many cats, we see:
- disorientation
- uneven pupil sizes
- weakness on one side of the body
- head tilt
- circling
- pressing the head against the wall
Visiting the Vet on a Budget
I am glad to hear she is doing better, but I was most concerned about your last statement. It is very common for clients to come in with a limited amount to spend, so if you can just take your cat in for a physical exam and bloodwork, that would be the best thing that you can do for her.
If the exam reveals signs of a stroke, they might want to do more (check blood pressure, clotting time, a cerebrospinal fluid tap, etc.), but it is normal for the client to say no. If you cannot do all of those tests, just say no.
If you say no to additional testing, your cat will be treated on her clinical signs and basic bloodwork. They might find that she is already dehydrated and recommend fluids. If she has kidney disease, diabetes, or a swollen thyroid, she might be put on special medication but, at the very least, will be getting a special diet to help her meet her caloric needs during these rough times.
If you cannot take her for an exam, there are some things you can do at home, but nothing is going to be as successful as finding out what the cause of her stroke is.
This article is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from your veterinarian. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
© 2022 Mark dos Anjos, DVM
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