Why is my cat suddenly off balance, breathing shallowly, eyes moving oddly?

Question

My cat is suddenly unable to balance properly, is breathing shallowly, and her eye movements are erratic. She is a 6 year old inside/outside cat who regularly hunts rodents. What could be causing this? Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 7 years and 9 months old

Laura Johnson VMD · Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Sissy! I would have Sissy seen today by a Vet. It sounds like she may be having a Vestibular event. The Vestibular system controls balance. Symptoms can show up suddenly and the dog or cat walks drunk, sometimes has a head tilt and their eyes move abnormally (nystagmus). the most common reason is an ear infection or polyp. Other causes are toxin ingestion, brain tumor, trauma, other cancer, Feline Infectious Peritonitis. Sissy should be examined for an ear infection, if present be prescribed ear drop and an oral antibiotic. It can take a few weeks for them to return to normal. In dogs if they have a head tilt it can be permanent. I hope this helps and good luck!

Why is my cat suddenly off balance, breathing shallowly, eyes moving oddly?

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