My cat is around twelve years old. About two months ago she became very sick with some kind of virus, but seemed to be taken care of with antibiotics after a trip to the vet. Now, however, I've had to bring her back to the vet because I noticed her left eye would not close and every so often her third eyelid would show itself. At the vet, I found out she apparently cannot feel her left ear or the left side of her upper lip as well. The vet gave her a couple of shots and antibiotics and vitamins for me to give her at home. (this was two days ago). He thought her problem might be related to the illness of two months ago, but wasn't sure since this recent thing just began not long ago. Today after bringing her back to the vet, he said she wasn't any better, but she wasn't any worse, either. I can't remember what he said the disease might be, but it doesn't seem very common. It turns out, however, he's seen three other cats with the same problem in the last two days, which he thought was odd. I mentioned the fact my cat had been sneezing pretty badly about a week or so ago for about two days, and he mentioned that one of the other cats he's seen with the same problem started out coughing. I've also noticed the whiskers on the left side of her face have broken off so they're only about an inch long now.
She doesn't seem to have any problem eating, though, and food doesn't fall out of her mouth, nor has she been drooling or anything. She seems to be fine with her other activities as well, and she is for the most part an outdoor cat, in and out during the day, and inside at night.
I guess I'm just wondering if anyone out there could shed some light on this.
Cat's eye won't close, and other facial problems.
Re: Cat's eye won't close, and other facial problems.
just a shot in the dark but it sounds like some form of a cererall accident, ie likie a stroke. there aren't too many vet neurolgists around but if there be one in your area it might be a good idea to have him/her look at your cat...
Re: Cat's eye won't close, and other facial problems.
In addition to Davet's comments, I'd also suggest a quick x-ray to rule out a potential tumor, whether this is in the area of the mouth, jaw, inner ear or even neck region. Also rule out toxin exposure, being that she is an outdoor kitty. (being she is 12 years of age, I'd strongly recommend keeping her indoors from now on)
What virus did your vet diagnose? Any bloodwork done at that time or currently?
What virus did your vet diagnose? Any bloodwork done at that time or currently?
..........Traci