Why is my cat having seizures or losing balance?

Seizures or an unsteady gait in cats can stem from a brain or spinal cord problem, a metabolic imbalance, trauma, or other causes. A vet examination with supporting tests is needed to determine the reason — bring a video and a symptom log to your appointment.

What tests will the vet run to find the cause?

Common diagnostic tests include a physical and neurological examination, blood count and biochemistry, urinalysis, radiographs or advanced imaging (CT/MRI), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis when indicated.

How can I document episodes at home to help with diagnosis?

Record the time, frequency, and duration of each episode, and film it from both the front and side if you can. Also note any changes in alertness, appetite, water intake, and litter box use — this information is invaluable for your vet.

Does my cat need to be hospitalised for seizures?

Hospitalisation depends on seizure frequency and the underlying cause. Infrequent, well-controlled episodes may be managed on an outpatient basis, but continuous or frequent seizures often require emergency monitoring. Follow your vet's assessment.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Feline Polioencephalomyelitis (Feline Poliomyelitis) in Cats: Seizures, Gait Abnormalities & Neurological Care [2025]

A viral encephalomyelitis in cats with a guarded prognosis

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/17

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ISFM, ACVIM, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate emergency care

•Seizure lasting more than a few minutes and unable to stop
•Sudden prolonged loss of consciousness with no apparent response
•Blue or purple lips or gums, or difficulty breathing

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Increasing frequency of seizures with shorter intervals between episodes
•Noticeable unsteadiness while walking or frequent falls
•Significant decrease in alertness and appetite, or excessive drowsiness

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

This type of neurological disease typically presents with seizures and impaired motor coordination, often accompanied by changes in mental status and sensory responses.

Seizures: generalised or focal involuntary muscle contractions
Unsteady gait, frequent falling, or altered stepping rhythm
Head tilt, neck stiffness, or generalised muscle weakness
Lethargy, reduced response to sound or light, or excessive drowsiness
Nystagmus (rapid involuntary eye movement) or unequal pupil sizes

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ A seizure lasting several minutes that does not stop on its own
⚠️ Sudden prolonged unconsciousness with no response to stimulation
⚠️ Blue or purple discolouration of the lips or gums, or difficulty breathing

02What should you look for at home, and when is it an emergency?

Systematic home observation and detailed notes help your vet pinpoint the problem quickly and arrange appropriate diagnostic tests.

Record the time, frequency, and duration of each episode
Film seizures or abnormal gait from the front and side using your phone
Monitor for changes in alertness, interaction, and response to stimulation
Note any changes in appetite, water intake, and urination or defecation
Weigh your cat weekly and track any recent gains or losses

03How will the vet reach a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

The vet will begin with a physical and neurological examination, supplemented by blood tests and imaging where necessary to identify the underlying cause.

Physical and neurological examination to localise lesions in the brain or spinal cord

Blood count and biochemistry panel to rule out metabolic or infectious causes

Urinalysis to assess kidney function and electrolyte status

Radiographs of the skull or related structures; advanced imaging (CT or MRI) if indicated

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis when needed to support the diagnosis

04What treatment and home care are needed? Medications, diet, and care guidelines

Treatment depends on the underlying cause; seizure control and scheduled recheck visits are central to monitoring recovery.

Cause-directed and symptomatic treatment to control seizures and reduce inflammation
Dietary management and weight monitoring to support overall health and recovery
Home environment modifications to reduce the risk of falls or injury
Regular follow-up appointments and repeat imaging or testing as directed by your vet
Referral to a veterinary neurologist for severe or recurring cases requiring further evaluation

05What should you bring to the appointment? Key information to help your vet

Bring a written log of each episode: time, frequency, and duration

Prepare phone videos of seizures or abnormal gait filmed from the front and side

List all current medications, supplements, and any known allergies

Note any recent changes in appetite, water consumption, and litter box habits

Bring previous test results or imaging files if available for comparison

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.