🔍 What Is Cerebellar Hypoplasia?

Cerebellar hypoplasia (CH), aka “wobbly kitten syndrome”, is a congenital condition where the cerebellum—the brain region controlling coordination—fails to fully develop :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. Affected kittens are born with their wobbly gait, head tremors, and difficulty with balance.

⚠️ Causes & Risk Factors

• In utero infection: Most often from feline parvovirus (panleukopenia) infecting the pregnant queen, disrupting fetal cerebellar development :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
• Postnatal infection: Rarely, kittens infected in the first weeks of life may develop CH :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
• Other possible causes: Genetic disorders, toxins, trauma, metabolic problems—though less common :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.

🚩 Signs & Symptoms

• Wobbly gait, swaying or wide-legged stance, difficulty jumping or climbing :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
• Intention tremors—head shakes when reaching for toys or moving :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
• Poor fine motor control—overshooting or appearing clumsy :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
• Severity ranges from mild wobble to severe coordination issues :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
• Importantly, **CH is non-progressive**—it doesn’t worsen over time :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

🔬 Diagnosis & Veterinary Tests

• Signalment & pattern: Young kitten with consistent cerebellar signs—from birth, non-progressive :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
• Neurological exam: Evaluates balance, reflexes, posture.
• Rule out others: Bloodwork, imaging to eliminate vestibular disease, spinal disorders :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.
• MRI/CT: Used rarely for definitive confirmation :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.

🛠️ Treatment & Supportive Care

There is no cure. Care focuses on adaptation, safety, and maximizing independence:

• Indoor lifestyle: Prevents falls, injuries, predators :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.
• Environment modifications: Low-entry litter boxes, wide food/water bowls, ramps, non-slip flooring mats :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
• Physical therapy: Encourage gentle movement with toys; vet-guided exercises improve confidence and coordination :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.
• Alternative therapies: Acupuncture or water therapy can ease joint strain—consult your vet :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.
• Provide stability: Avoid stairs; use rugs, traction pads, and keep nails for grip :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.
• Supportive gear: Harnesses or mobility aids for severely affected cats :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.

🏡 Home Management Tips

• Stay consistent with litter and feeding station locations.
• Use soft bedding in low-traffic zones.
• Supervise play with other pets—avoid roughhousing :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}.
• Let your CH cat set the pace for movement—no forced maneuvers.
• Engage in gentle play sessions to mentally and physically stimulate.

📅 Monitoring & Prognosis

• Affected cats are **not in pain** and often live normal lifespans :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}.
• Symptoms are stable—cats adapt over time and may appear steadier :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}.
• Quality of life is good: indoor-friendly, supported by environment and care :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}.
• Severe cases may need discussion around humane interventions :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}.

🛡️ Prevention Strategies

• Vaccinate queens: Ensure panleukopenia protection before pregnancy :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}.
• Avoid live vaccine in pregnancy: Prevent fetal cerebellar harm :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}.
• Prevent infection: Maintain clean environment and routine vet care.

📝 Quick Reference Table