🐾 Vet’s Guide to Meningoencephalomyelitis in Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment in 2025 🐾

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc

Meningoencephalomyelitis is a rare but serious neurological condition in cats, involving inflammation of the brain, spinal cord, and their protective membranes. This comprehensive guide provides Australian cat owners with up-to-date information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of meningoencephalomyelitis in 2025.

🔬 Understanding Meningoencephalomyelitis

Meningoencephalomyelitis refers to the inflammation of the meninges (the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord), the brain (encephalon), and the spinal cord (myelon). This inflammation can disrupt normal neurological function, leading to a range of clinical signs. The condition can be caused by infectious agents, immune-mediated processes, or remain idiopathic (unknown origin).

🦠 Causes of Meningoencephalomyelitis

Several factors can lead to the development of meningoencephalomyelitis in cats:

• 🐾 Infectious Agents: Viral infections like feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), bacterial infections, fungal infections such as cryptococcosis, and parasitic infections like toxoplasmosis.
• 🐾 Immune-Mediated Disorders: The immune system mistakenly attacks the central nervous system, leading to inflammation.
• 🐾 Idiopathic Causes: In some cases, no definitive cause is identified despite thorough diagnostic workup.

🐱 Recognizing Symptoms

Symptoms of meningoencephalomyelitis can vary depending on the affected areas but may include:

• 🐾 Seizures
• 🐾 Behavioral changes or depression
• 🐾 Circling or head pressing
• 🐾 Blindness
• 🐾 Ataxia (loss of coordination)
• 🐾 Neck pain or stiffness
• 🐾 Fever
• 🐾 Lethargy

🧪 Diagnosis

Diagnosing meningoencephalomyelitis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing:

• 🐾 Neurological Examination: Assessing reflexes, coordination, and other neurological functions.
• 🐾 Blood Tests: To identify systemic infections or inflammatory markers.
• 🐾 Imaging: MRI or CT scans to visualize inflammation or structural changes in the brain and spinal cord.
• 🐾 Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis: Collecting and analyzing CSF can reveal elevated white blood cells or protein levels indicative of inflammation.

💊 Treatment Options

Treatment strategies depend on the underlying cause:

• 🐾 Antimicrobial Therapy: Antibiotics, antifungals, or antiparasitic medications for infectious causes.
• 🐾 Immunosuppressive Therapy: Corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs for immune-mediated cases.
• 🐾 Supportive Care: Intravenous fluids, nutritional support, and anti-seizure medications as needed.

🛡️ Prevention Strategies

While not all cases are preventable, certain measures can reduce the risk:

• 🐾 Vaccinations: Keeping up-to-date with vaccinations to prevent viral infections like FIP.
• 🐾 Parasite Control: Regular deworming and flea control to prevent parasitic infections.
• 🐾 Environmental Management: Keeping cats indoors to reduce exposure to infectious agents.

📍 Considerations for Australian Cat Owners

In Australia, certain environmental factors and regional diseases may influence the risk of meningoencephalomyelitis. It's essential to consult with local veterinarians who are familiar with area-specific risks and preventive measures.

📱 Stay Informed with Ask A Vet

For personalized advice and support, consider downloading the Ask A Vet app. Our platform connects you with licensed veterinarians for real-time consultations, helping you keep your feline friend healthy and happy.

🐾 Download the Ask A Vet app today and ensure your cat's well-being is always a tap away! 📲