Wobbly Cat Syndrome

Electra  is a 6-month-old kitten from Medina, Ohio. All of her brothers and sisters have found their furrever homes, but she has been left behind, because she walks like she’s drunk.

The vet says it is a brain thing that some kittens get, but most outgrow it,” Save Ohio Strays volunteer Sandy Barnosky said.

There are many reasons that a cat might walk like they are drunk, but it could be Cerebellar Hypoplasia, or what is more commonly known as Wobbly Cat Syndrome or Drunk Cat Syndrome. 

The cat with cerebellar hypoplasia is abnormal from birth, though it may not be clear that something is wrong until the kittens are toddling around with some coordination. The cat with this disease clearly has balance issues: he walks with his legs widely placed for fear of falling and places his feet clumsily. He often leans against walls for support. Sitting still, he may look like a fairly normal cat but once focused on a toy, food bowl or friendly hand, tremors begin getting more severe as concentration becomes more intense. Still, despite the obvious impairment, cats with this condition are happy, able to feed themselves and use a litter box, and are felt to have good life quality.

Cerebellar Hypoplasia

Cerebellar Hypoplasia in cats is a neurological condition that affects the development of the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movements and maintaining balance. It is a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth, and is most commonly caused by a viral infection during the mother cat’s pregnancy, specifically the feline panleukopenia virus.

Kittens born with cerebellar hypoplasia have an underdeveloped cerebellum, which results in a range of motor coordination and balance issues. The severity of the condition can vary from mild to severe. Cats with mild cerebellar hypoplasia may exhibit slightly uncoordinated movements and have a wobbly gait, while cats with severe cerebellar hypoplasia may have difficulty walking, suffer from tremors or involuntary movements, and have problems with balance and posture.

It’s important to note that cerebellar hypoplasia in cats is not a progressive condition, meaning it does not worsen over time. However, the symptoms usually persist throughout the cat’s life. Cats with cerebellar hypoplasia can still lead happy and fulfilling lives with some adaptations. They may require a safe and secure environment to prevent injuries, and modifications to their living space, such as providing low-sided litter boxes and easy-to-access food and water bowls.

Cats with cerebellar hypoplasia require special care and attention. They can benefit from physical therapy and exercises tailored to improve their coordination and muscle strength. It’s also important to provide a stress-free environment, and plenty of mental stimulation to keep them mentally engaged.

If you suspect that your cat has cerebellar hypoplasia or if you have a kitten showing signs of this condition, it’s recommended to consult with a veterinarian who can provide a proper diagnosis and guide you on the best management strategies for your cat’s specific needs.

What Causes Cerebellar Hypoplasia?

The feline distemper virus, or the the feline panleukopenia virus, is what usually causes cerebellar hypoplasia in cats. If a pregnant mama cat has either of these viruses, or if she is vaccinated for them during her pregnancy, the live virus can pass through and attack her babies’ developing cerebellums.

A cat’s cerebellum is developing clear up until a few days before they are born; so they are vulnerable for quite some time. It can also be passed through nursing, so a mama cat should not be vaccinated until her kittens have been weaned. It can also be caused by the ringworm medicine Griseofulvin, if used during pregnancy or nursing. So again, wait until the kittens have been weaned to use it.

AKA “Drunk Cat Syndrome” or “Wobbly Cat Syndrome”

Cerebellar Hypoplasia in cats is often referred to as “wobbly cat syndrome” or “drunk cat syndrome” due to the characteristic symptoms exhibited by affected cats. These terms are colloquial names used to describe the unsteady gait and lack of coordination seen in cats with cerebellar hypoplasia.

The term “wobbly cat syndrome” is commonly used because affected cats may have a wobbly or shaky gait, making their movements appear uncoordinated.

Similarly, the term “drunk cat syndrome” is used because their movements can resemble those of an intoxicated or drunk individual, with stumbling, swaying, and a lack of balance.

It’s important to note that these terms are not medically recognized names for the condition, but are rather descriptive names used to identify and describe the symptoms seen in cats with cerebellar hypoplasia. The official medical term for the condition is cerebellar hypoplasia.

Living With A Wobbly Cat

As long as you keep your wobbly cat indoors, and give them non-tip bowls to eat and drink from, and make a few other simple modifications to their living quarters, they shouldn’t have too many problems and can live a purrfectly happy and long life.

Here are several things you can do to make life easier for a cat with cerebellar hypoplasia:

Provide a Safe and Secure Environment

Be sure that your home is cat-friendly and free from hazards. Remove any sharp objects or obstacles that the cat may bump into. Consider using baby gates or creating designated areas to limit access to potentially dangerous areas such as stairs.

Use Low-Sided Litter Boxes

Cats with cerebellar hypoplasia may have difficulty climbing in and out of high-sided litter boxes. Opt for low-sided litter boxes that are easily accessible to prevent accidents and make it easier for the cat to use the litter box independently. In addition to using low-sided litter boxes, here are more specific recommendations:

1. Use non-slip material inside and outside the litter box. Rubber mats or textured surfaces give wobbly cats needed traction when entering, positioning, and exiting.
2. Strategic box placement is crucial – avoid placing boxes in corners where a wobbly cat might get stuck. Instead, position boxes against a single wall where the cat can lean for support while using it.
3. Consider multiple entry points if possible. Some adaptive litter boxes have openings on different sides, giving your wobbly cat options for entering and exiting based on their specific mobility patterns.
4. Litter depth matters – too deep and they may struggle with balance; too shallow and they might not recognize it as a proper bathroom spot. About 1-2 inches is typically ideal.
5. Box stability is essential – choose heavier boxes that won’t tip or slide when the cat leans against them or makes jerky movements.
6. Consistent location is even more important for wobbly cats than typical cats. They develop muscle memory for navigating to their box, so avoid frequent repositioning.
7. Extra clean-up preparation may be needed, as these cats might accidentally kick more litter out or occasionally miss the box despite their best efforts.

Provide Stable and Secure Surfaces

Place stable and secure surfaces for your cat to walk on, such as non-slip mats or carpeting. This can help improve their traction and stability while moving around the house.

Provide Assistive Devices

Consider using assistive devices such as ramps or steps to help your cat access elevated areas like beds or couches. These devices can assist them in navigating different levels without struggling or falling. These devices can greatly improve mobility and quality of life for cats with wobbly cat syndrome. Here are some ideas:

1. Gentle-slope ramps are preferable to stairs for many CH cats. Look for ramps with a gradual incline (around 18-20 degrees) and a non-slip surface to provide secure footing.
2. Textured steps with shallow rises work better than steep stairs. If using steps instead of ramps, choose those with low rises (3-4 inches) and carpet or rubberized covering for traction.
3. Wider platforms provide more stability than narrow ones. Ensure any steps or ramps have adequate width (10-12 inches minimum) to accommodate wobbly movements.
4. Guardrails or side barriers on ramps and steps prevent falls. These should be at least 2-3 inches high to guide your cat and provide something to lean against.
5. Furniture blockers can prevent access to unsafe heights. Consider limiting access to very high perches that could lead to dangerous falls.
6. Non-slip floor runners create safe pathways through slippery areas. These can be particularly helpful on hardwood, tile, or linoleum floors.
7. Door gates with openings at floor level allow access while preventing falls down stairs. These can section off potentially dangerous areas while still allowing your cat to see and interact.
8. Harnesses and mobility aids for more severely affected cats can provide support during movement. These should be properly fitted and used primarily for assistance, not constant wear.
9. Furniture arrangement that creates “stepping stone” paths helps cats navigate spaces more confidently. Strategically placed ottomans, benches, or cushions can create intermediate heights.
10. Anti-slip corner guards and padding on furniture edges protect from injuries during falls or collisions. Focus on covering sharp corners at your cat’s height level.

Elevated Food and Water Bowls

For cats with wobbly cat syndrome (cerebellar hypoplasia), elevated food and water bowls can be very helpful. Here are important considerations:

1. Height customization is crucial – the ideal elevation depends on your specific cat’s size and severity of wobbliness. What works for one CH cat may not work for another. Observe your cat eating/drinking at different heights to find their optimal position.
2. Wide, stable base designs are essential – look for bowls with extra-wide, heavy bases or those that attach securely to a platform. This prevents tipping when your cat leans against them.
3. Bowl depth matters – slightly shallow bowls allow easier access to food and water without your cat needing to put their entire face into the dish, which can be challenging with head tremors.
4. Non-slip surfaces on and around feeding stations help prevent sliding. Consider silicone mats underneath or bowls with rubberized bottoms.
5. Wall-adjacent placement gives your wobbly cat something to lean against while eating or drinking, providing extra stability.
6. Consider feeding slings for cats with more severe CH. These fabric supports can help stabilize a cat’s front end while they eat.
7. Separate food and water stations may help, as some wobbly cats do better when they can focus on one task at a time without needing to navigate between different bowls.
8. Water fountains might be easier for some CH cats than still water bowls, as the flowing water is more visible and accessible.
9. Micromanage spills by using waterproof mats under elevated stations, as wobblier cats tend to create more mess while eating and drinking.

Provide Soft Bedding

Providing appropriate soft bedding is especially important for cats with wobbly cat syndrome. Here are key considerations:

1. Multi-layer padding offers better support than thin bedding. Consider using memory foam bases with soft fleece tops for optimal comfort and protection.
2. Bed walls or bolsters provide additional security and support. Cats with CH often appreciate having something to lean against while resting.
3. Non-slip bottoms are essential for stability. Choose beds with rubberized or grip-texture bottoms to prevent sliding when your cat gets in or out.
4. Strategic placement of beds throughout your home allows your wobbly cat to rest without needing to navigate long distances. Place beds in common areas where your cat spends time.
5. Heated options can provide additional comfort. Many CH cats benefit from heating pads or self-warming beds, as the warmth can help relax muscles that may tense up from extra exertion.
6. Washable materials are practical since accidents may be more common. Look for beds with removable, machine-washable covers.
7. Varied textures give your cat options based on their preference and comfort needs. Some cats prefer plush surfaces, while others might prefer smoother fabrics.
8. Nest-style beds that create a sense of security can be particularly comforting for wobbly cats who may feel vulnerable due to their mobility challenges.
9. Floor cushioning around favorite spots offers protection from falls. Consider placing soft rugs or foam mats in areas where your cat frequently sits or walks.
10. Elevated beds with easy access might be preferred by some CH cats, as they can be easier to get into than floor-level beds. Just ensure they’re stable and not too high.

Interactive Toys and Mental Stimulation

Engaging your wobbly cat in interactive play with appropriate toys stimulates their mind and encourages gentle exercise. Here are some important considerations:

1. Stationary toys are often best for CH cats, as they don’t need to chase moving objects. Puzzle feeders, treat dispensers, and activity boards that stay in one place allow your cat to engage without frustration.
2. Textured toys are easier for wobbly cats to grip and manipulate. Look for toys with different surfaces, fabrics, and materials that provide sensory stimulation and are easier to hold.
3. Vertical play spaces should be adapted for safety. Consider low cat trees with wide platforms, ramps instead of ladders, and padding around play structures to prevent injury from falls.
4. Sound-based toys like crinkle balls or toys with bells can be particularly engaging, as CH cats can locate them by sound rather than having to track fast movements visually.
5. Gentle wand toys allow you to bring the toy to your cat rather than requiring them to chase. Move the toy slowly and keep it low to the ground to accommodate their mobility challenges.
6. Catnip and silvervine toys can be excellent for stationary enrichment, allowing mental stimulation without requiring precise movements.
7. Regular, shorter play sessions are typically better than longer ones. Many CH cats tire more quickly and benefit from brief but frequent interaction.
8. Clicker training can be especially rewarding for wobbly cats. Simple tricks within their physical capabilities build confidence and provide mental exercise.
9. Adapting play style to match your cat’s abilities is crucial. Observe what movements are easier for your cat and focus on games that utilize those strengths.
10. Social interaction itself is stimulating. Many CH cats enjoy companionship and talking to their humans as a form of mental engagement.

Regular Veterinary Check-Ups

Schedule regular visits with your veterinarian to monitor your cat’s condition, address any concerns, and receive guidance on managing their specific needs.

A little extra care can go a long way towards making sure your cat avoids any accidents that could be caused by his or her lack of balance.

The wobbling doesn’t get any better with age, but it also doesn’t get any worse. A cat can have various degrees of problems with their balance, depending on how badly their brain has been affected. But other than their lack of coordination, wobbly cats are normal in every other way.

Remember, each cat’s needs may vary, so it’s essential to observe and understand your cat’s specific challenges and make adjustments accordingly. Consulting with a veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist can provide further guidance on how to best support and improve the quality of life for a cat with cerebellar hypoplasia.

To learn more about Cerebellar Hypoplasia, and to see a cat that has it, watch this short video called “This is Charley”.