Disorder - Encephalomyelopathy

Organ Systems Involved
Nervous/sensory

Alternative Names
Leukoencephalomyopathy

Presenting Signs

Encephalomyopathy is a disease in which the nervous system is damaged from the abnormal build-up of fluid within the cells of the brain and spinal cord. The reason for the fluid accumulation is unknown. Kittens are usually normal at birth, and at around two to five months of age develop nervous system symptoms such as incoordination, a wobbly gait, and involuntary eye ball movement and head shaking. Affected cats cannot judge the position and movement of their hind legs. They display weakness in their hind legs which eventually progresses to paralysis, and at later stages the fore legs are also affected. Some cats become incontinent and are unable to control the passing of urine and faeces. The eyes of many cats are affected; the lens or capsule may be opaque (cataracts) in both eyes, causing impaired vision or blindness.

In the early stages of disease kittens usually eat well, play and show normal activity. They may be smaller in size, and have a very light coat colour at birth, a high pitched miaow, smaller heads and closer set eyes than unaffected kittens. The disease causes the nervous system to degenerate progressively, eventually resulting in death.

Cats at Risk

Young cats

Breeds Affected
Birman


Treatment

No treatment. The disease is inevitably fatal and prognosis is poor. Affected cats have a variable lifespan.

PubMed References
Encephalomyelopathy

Contributor
Briar Morton