Key takeaways
Meningitis in cats is an inflammatory disease that affects the meninges (the membranes covering the brain and the spinal cord).
- There are many causes for this inflammation including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites
- In cats, it is most commonly a consequence of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)
- Common symptoms include fever, muscular spasms, and neck pain
- Symptoms vary considerably depending on the type of meningitis and the areas affected, and might also lead to seizures, loss of consciousness, behavioral changes, loss of mobility, and coma
- Diagnostics include a complete physical and neurological examination, bloodwork, urinalysis, and diagnostic imaging
- Analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid is also often necessary
- Typical treatment includes the prescription of medications for the underlying cause and supportive therapy to alleviate symptoms and reduce risk of complications
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A closer look: Meningitis in Cats
Meningitis is a disease with a number of causes that all cause an inflammation in the meninges (the membranes covering the brain and the spinal cord).
Meningitis is a life-threatening disease and as such should be considered an emergency. The prognosis is overall guarded and many patients die despite treatment. Those that survive often develop long-term neurological effects. Meningitis is relatively rare compared to inflammation of other organs, but it is more frequently seen in cats than in dogs.
Risk factors
In cats, inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) is often associated with meningitis. Meningoencephalitis (inflammation of the meninges and brain) can present with additional symptoms.
Possible causes
There are a number of causes of meningitis.
Sometimes the cause cannot be determined.
Main symptoms
Symptoms vary greatly depending on the type of meningitis and its severity.
Testing and diagnosis
The diagnostic process involves a complete physical examination, including bloodwork, urinalysis, and a neurological evaluation. Diagnostic imaging such as MRI or CT scanning of the brain might also be necessary to locate and identify the inflammation.
The most reliable exam is the analysis of cerebrospinal fluid through a procedure known as a spinal tap. Other specific tests might be needed to confirm the cause of the condition.
Steps to Recovery
Treatment largely depends on the underlying cause. Steroids might be prescribed as well as specific medications such as antibiotics, antifungals, and antiprotozoals.
Supportive therapy is also very important in cases of meningitis to alleviate the symptoms and reduce the risks of complications. Intravenous fluid therapy, rotation of recumbent patients, nutritional support, pain medications, and anti-seizure medications.
The prognosis is generally guarded for cats and varies depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the infection. In severe cases, patients might die despite treatment. The risk for long-term neurological defects is a concrete one.
Prevention
As some of the causes of meningitis include infectious agents, some of them may be contagious. Preventative measures depend on the underlying cause of the meningitis.
Meningitis is not contagious.
Is Meningitis in Cats common?
Meningitis is relatively rare in cats compared to inflammation of other organs. It is more likely to affect cats than dogs.
Typical Treatment
Specific medications
- Antibacterial, antifungal, or antiprotozoals
- Pain medications
- Anti-seizure medications
- Steroids Supportive therapy
- IV fluids
- Physical therapy
- Nutritional support
