Feline/Cat Neurology

What are early diagnostic measures for hippocampal necrosis? Is there an AHA moment for detection?

-       Currently, we don’t have great diagnostics. A lot of it comes from non-responsive (or maybe steroid-responsive) seizures that have a classic temporal lobe presentation, such as facial seizures, hypersalivation, etc, early on.

Gluten free diet for dyskinesia?

-       This has gotten some traction and support in specific breeds of dogs! We haven’t seen too much in the feline world, but diet is somewhere we absolutely need to be looking, especially since we know there is an association in the canine world.

Have you seen cats presenting for audiogenic seizures??

-       Yes, interestingly, sometimes these are associated with the hippocampal necrosis or temporal seizures and can present early on as partial/focal seizures.

Are seizures a side effect of the use of Solensia for osteoarthritis pain in senior cats?

-       Great question, complicated answer. In theory, there could be a decrease in neuro support based on this compound’s MOA, but compared to dogs, we haven’t seen any reports (at least I haven’t). Could it in theory with a cat who already have epilepsy, sure. In general, for this and Librela, the easy button is if they have neuro issues to hold off, at least until we know more! That said, I’m not yet convinced it is a direct cause/effect in terms of causing seizures.

Decision Making in Seizure Drugs

What is your take on the neurological diets out on the market, aka Purina Bright Minds, etc?

-       They are better for general brain health. Many do have higher percentages of what we know to be nutritionally beneficial for the brain. Do I think it is a cure-all – no, do I not. Do I think they can be used as part of a multimodal approach? Absolutely! Regarding NeuroCare for seizures, it is more that most of my clients can’t afford it.

What would be your ideal level of phenobarbital in a patient without liver disease?

-       If they have good seizure control, then as long as they are <35, I’m happy as I treat the patient, not the number.

-       If just starting to get control or modulating, I shoot for 20 to 30

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