The feline hyperesthesia is a disease or disorder that is associated with cats of any breed or age that are highly nervous or under high stress. The cat experiences an increase in skin sensitivity, to the point of becoming upset just by touching or petting it.
The disorders of feline hyperesthesia syndrome they are not just physical. On the one hand, the animal will tend to compulsively repeat normal behaviors in the feline species: scratching, biting, chasing its tail… until it becomes pathological. In addition, they will develop symptoms such as tremors in the back, muscle contractions… etc.
Causes of feline hyperesthesia
The causes of hyperesthesia in cats are unknown today, although most paintings of this type are associated with cats stressed. It has also been pointed out that, in some situations, it could be the beginning of feline epilepsy, especially in those cases in which episodes of hyperesthesia occur through seizures.
It is believed that a state of nervousness that can be caused by multiple causes (fleas, allergies, dermatitis, fungi or any other dermatological disorder), as well as more serious problems such as arthritis, spinal pain or a herniated disc, can be the cause of this disease, but it is still being studied and there is no clear origin.
Symptoms of feline hyperesthesia
The symptoms of this disorder can be different in each cat. In fact, in the mildest cases these symptoms or signs only last a few seconds. However, there are more serious episodes in which palpitations, muscle tremors and symptoms associated with the disorder can last for several minutes.
To know if your cat suffers from feline hyperesthesia syndrome, there are certain symptoms that are very common. Among them would be continuous salivation, dilated pupils, constant shaking and movements of the tail, spasms in the skin, muscle contractions, etc. In turn, the cat behavior reveals that he is in a state of maximum nervousness.
The latter usually happens when the animal bites itself, often vehemently, on its tail, back or hind legs, to the point that in the most serious cases it can become mutilated. Another frequent symptom in this state is that the cat cannot control its urine.
Treatment of feline hyperesthesia
The first step in determining the feline hyperesthesia treatment of your cat is to go to the vet. It will be this specialist who will carry out the corresponding tests to establish the possible causes of the animal’s state of stress. It is very important to check if this episode is derived from a dermatological problem, an allergy or some pain or internal problem.
The main objective is try to reduce your cat’s stress. In many cases, the vet will prescribe corticosteroids. In turn, the cat may need painkillers and other medications. However, it must be remembered that there is no specific treatment to cure this disorder.
How to care for your cat with feline hyperesthesia?
Along with the medications to treat hyperesthesia in cats, the veterinarian will provide you with a series of guidelines and advice to follow. The main objective is to ensure that the animal can enjoy a much calmer and quieter environment in your day to day. In this sense, it will be necessary to find a suitable space for him to sleep, a place where he can comfortably access his food and a play area with which he feels comfortable throughout the day.
The feeding and the hydration They are also fundamental aspects for your cat to feel more relaxed. Try to provide a balanced diet and always have access to fresh water. In addition, it is more than recommended that you always give him food at the same time so that he gets used to a schedule.
As far as possible, it is advisable that you can socialize with other calm cats to be able to play and always feel accompanied. At the same time, he establishes a play routine with your cat every day in a space where he feels comfortable and safe. All accompanied by optimal sensory stimulation.
The feline hyperesthesiaIn short, it is a disorder that does not have a specific cure and that causes cats to be much more nervous and stressed than normal. The exact causes of this pathology They are still under study and may be due to a variety of reasons, so it is very important to go to the veterinarian so that he or she can determine why our cat has developed this syndrome and, based on this, establish an appropriate treatment.
venomoussnakes has allowed me for years to work on what I am most passionate about: the animal world. I combine my work collaborating as a volunteer in protectors, sanctuaries, reserves and any related event or activity. I have done various seminars and courses related to canine education, birds, primatology and a long etcetera. I enjoy learning every day from these incredible colleagues with whom we are lucky enough to live.