Canine Geriatric Vestibular Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care [2025]
A common vestibular disorder in senior dogs marked by sudden head tilt and loss of balance — most cases improve noticeably within 2–3 weeks
When to See a Vet
Seek Emergency Care Immediately
- •Unable to stand or support own body continuously
- •Persistent, uncontrollable vomiting
- •Seizures, loss of consciousness, or unresponsiveness
Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)
- •Head tilt persistently to one side with no improvement
- •Continued stumbling or inability to walk steadily
- •Noticeably reduced appetite or prolonged refusal to eat
01What symptoms indicate a problem?
Vestibular disease most commonly presents with symptoms affecting balance and digestion, typically including head tilt, involuntary eye movement, and an unsteady gait.
- Repeated vomiting or regurgitation of undigested food
- Obvious nausea, loss of appetite, or lethargy
- Stumbling, lurching, or unsteady gait when walking
- Head tilted to one side or continuous unnatural head turning
- Rapid involuntary eye movement (nystagmus)
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02How to assess the situation at home: key observations and when to go to the emergency vet
When monitoring at home, focus on recording symptom frequency, changes in alertness and bowel or bladder habits, and filming episodes for your vet to review.
- Record the number of vomiting episodes, and note the colour and contents of vomit
- Film episodes on your phone from both front and side angles
- Note the time episodes began, how often they occur, and how long each one lasts
- Observe for changes in appetite, water intake, and urination or defecation
- Weigh your dog daily and track any changes over time
- If symptoms persist or worsen, arrange a vet appointment as soon as possible
03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests
At the clinic, your vet will start with a full physical and neurological examination, and may order imaging and laboratory tests to rule out other causes.
Full physical examination and neurological assessment of balance and reflexes
Blood count and biochemistry panel to rule out metabolic or internal medicine conditions
X-rays to evaluate the skull or ear canal for structural abnormalities
CT or MRI imaging to assess brain or inner ear structures
Otoscopic examination or sample collection for laboratory analysis if indicated
Referral to a specialist hospital with advanced imaging capabilities is recommended if needed
04Treatment and home care after diagnosis: medications, diet adjustments, and care guide
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and identifying the underlying cause, with regular follow-up and tests as directed by your vet.
- Initial management with anti-nausea medication and supportive care to control symptoms and maintain hydration
- If infection or inflammation is suspected, your vet will evaluate whether further sample testing is needed
- Dietary adjustments to minimise nausea and ensure adequate fluid intake
- Provide a low, non-slip, and quiet resting environment at home
- Schedule regular check-ups and any follow-up imaging as advised by your vet
- Contact your vet and arrange further evaluation if symptoms recur or worsen
05What to prepare before seeing the vet: key information to help your vet diagnose quickly
This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.