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What are The Causes of Paralysis in Pets?

Pet Care Tips 4 min read
A paralyzed dog in a dog wheelchair.

Paralysis in pets is the loss of the ability of one or more body parts to move voluntarily. It can be confused with paresis, which implies that a specific limb may be able to move but not as easily. Conversely, paralysis means there is a complete loss of function or control of a body part.

Paralysis can be categorized based on which body parts are affected, and how many. Tetraplegia/quadriplegia happens when a dog or cat is unable to move any of their legs, paraplegia is when two limbs are immobilized, monoplegia is paralysis limited to a single limb, and hemiplegia is paralysis localized to one side of the body.

Paralysis can be categorized based on which body parts are affected, and how many.

The onset of paralysis may be sudden or gradual. Sudden paralysis is likely to occur due to a traumatic injury to the brain or spine. Gradual paralysis will often develop due to an underlying, degenerative disease like Intervertebral Disc Disease, or as a result of old age.

Causes of Paralysis in Pets

  1. Trauma and injuries

    There are many types of trouble that a pet can get into that could lead to serious injuries. Car accidents, animal attacks, or a fall from a tall height may cause a spinal cord injury, leading to paralysis. Prioritizing your pet’s safety by keeping them on a leash and away from dangerous environments can help avoid some of these accidents.

  2. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

    The discs between vertebrae are responsible for the flexibility of the spine and act as cushions for shock due to movement, such as walking or running. In intervertebral disc disease, these discs may slip out of place or bulge, pressing on the spinal cord and causing paralysis.

  3. Tick Paralysis 

    Ticks contain a toxin in their saliva that can affect the nervous system after entering the bloodstream through a bite, resulting in paralysis. The first signs of this typically occur a couple of days after a tick has attached. This condition is one of the reasons why it is important to check animals for ticks after being outside. You can also use conventional tick prevention treatment to lower the risk. Natural pest deterrents such as NHV’s Target Spray may support them as well.

  4. Infections and Inflammatory Control

    Certain diseases are more likely to impact the nervous system, especially in cases where inflammation occurs in the fluid and membranes around the spinal cord or causes nerve damage. Examples of these conditions are meningitis and encephalitis. Alternatively, autoimmune diseases can also lead to damage that prevents the communication necessary between the brain and muscles for movement, causing paralysis.

  5. Neurological Disorders

    Similar to issues caused by inflammatory conditions, a disorder of the nervous system can lead to paralysis due to a disruption of signals between the brain and the body. An example of this is degenerative myelopathy which involves degeneration of the spinal cord, resulting in progressive paralysis.

  6. Tumors and Cancer

    Tumors that develop in positions that press on nerves may cause paralysis in pets. They may disrupt communication between the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.

  7. Poisoning and Toxic Exposure

    Similar to cases of tick paralysis, there are other toxins and poisons that can cause paralysis. Examples include rat bait or blue-green algae. Additionally, contaminated meats can cause botulism. The symptoms of this condition begin with hind leg weakness. This weakness gradually spreads to the front limbs and muscles of the face. If your dog seems unwell following a trip to the beach or lake, seek assessment for poisoning.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

In cases of gradual paralysis, pets may show signs of deteriorating mobility or other unique symptoms depending on the cause. For both sudden and gradual paralysis, the clearest sign of paralysis is a lack of movement in one or more limbs. Other symptoms that may occur include incontinence, tripping, imbalance, unusual gait, a limp tail, constipation, and dragging of limbs. If your pet suddenly exhibits signs of paralysis, try to stay calm. Contact your nearest veterinary clinic or hospital for support. They may offer ambulance services to help transport your pet, if needed.

To diagnose paralysis, a veterinarian will perform a physical exam to test a pet’s reflexes and determine if they have feeling and pain response in the affected limb or body part. They may also use imaging to take a closer look, which may involve X-rays, and MRI, or a CT scan. Blood tests may be performed. Additionally, a sample of spinal fluid may be analyzed to determine an underlying cause of paralysis.

Treatment Options for Paralysis

Treatment for paralysis may vary depending on the cause. In cases of sudden paralysis, pets will often need hospitalization and immediate treatment. Injuries due to trauma will need to be addressed and treated with pain and anti-inflammatory medications. A pet may recover from paralysis caused by an injury after some time, as swelling reduces and nerves regenerate over a period of months.

A pet may recover from paralysis caused by an injury after some time, as swelling reduces and nerves regenerate

During this recovery period, physical therapy can be helpful for rehabilitation and healing. This may include acupuncture, hydrotherapy, and laser therapy. However, depending on the severity and location of the nerve damage, the function of a paralyzed limb or body part may not fully heal.

For paralysis caused by toxins or infections, treatment will also involve addressing the underlying cause. A pet may recover their mobility once the inflammation due to an infection reduces, or with the removal of the paralysis-causing tick.

Surgery is also a treatment option for cases of IVDD and tumors. Surgical intervention may be able to relieve some of the pressure on the spinal cord that is causing paralysis.

Sadly, certain conditions that may cause paralysis do not have treatment, currently. Horner’s syndrome and Degenerative Myelopathy are two cases where pets may not be able to regain the function of paralyzed limbs.

Natural Support for Pets with Paralysis

At NHV, we have supplements that may help to reduce inflammation and discomfort, and support recovery. NHV’s Yucca is a great option for supportive care. It may help the body produce natural steroids to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

NHV’s Yucca is a great option for supportive care, as it may help the body produce natural steroids

We also offer products that may help improve mobility, including Old Timer, Turmeric, and PetOmega 3. These supplements may complement each other to provide comprehensive support of joint function. Depending on the cause of paralysis, our Pet Expert team may have alternate recommendations for your furkiddo. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help with developing a holistic regimen for your little one!

Sarah Burr, BSc

Sarah Burr, BSc

Sarah graduated from the University of British Columbia with a BSc. in Applied Animal Biology, and has experience working with a variety of pets in animal shelters and veterinary hospitals. She has received a certificate in animal welfare, and her topics of interest have also included animal behavior and physiology.

Published: September 13, 2024

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