Cat with Horner's syndrome, worsening balance & gulping. Vet no answers.

Head tilt could be caused by deep inner ear infection (or polyp), stroke, infection such as toxoplasmosis, stroke, or even tumor although that would be rare at her age. If the toxo test comes back normal then I would consider requesting a referral to a neurologist where an MRI of the brain can be done. If that is not possible then I would trial treat with antibiotics and steroids. I am so sorry that she is going through this. I am sure you are very worried. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

If routine medications for internal ear infection have not helped Willow, then I would also be concerned about a brain tumor or other non-bacterial problem, like a stroke, fungal infection, nerve issue, etc. Advanced imaging, such as CT or MRI, may be able to diagnose the cause of Willow's symptoms. If you elect not to pursue these types of diagnostics, you may discuss with your vet options for keeping her comfortable. Often anti-nausea medications and eye drops to keep the eye moist will help with most of the discomfort associated with vestibular (balance) issues and Horner's Syndrome.

Balance issues as such could be due to a brain condition or middle ear infection in most cases, there isn't much you can do at home i'm afraid as this needs to be diagnosed physically by your vet to assess her neurological responses. as she scratches the neck area there is a fair chance that it's the middle ear that is causing this, in that case an antibiotic course should solve the problem.

Calicovirus can cause many symptoms but balance loss is very concerning. I recommend a revisit to your vet, a full blood panel to rule out any internal issues and an ear exam to ensure this is not affecting her balance

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. These symptoms suggest that Stidi hs problems with the middle ear (infection, inflammation, polyp, tumour) or it may be related to brain disfunction (blood clot within the brain, ruptured vessel in the brain, tumor). Please, take Stidi to your local vets as soon as possible. If the symptoms are due to middle ear problem, he will need a course of strong anti-inflammatory medications and possibly antibiotics to get better.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Sissy! I would have Sissy seen today by a Vet. It sounds like she may be having a Vestibular event. The Vestibular system controls balance. Symptoms can show up suddenly and the dog or cat walks drunk, sometimes has a head tilt and their eyes move abnormally (nystagmus). the most common reason is an ear infection or polyp. Other causes are toxin ingestion, brain tumor, trauma, other cancer, Feline Infectious Peritonitis. Sissy should be examined for an ear infection, if present be prescribed ear drop and an oral antibiotic. It can take a few weeks for them to return to normal. In dogs if they have a head tilt it can be permanent. I hope this helps and good luck!

The next steep would be a test for toxoplasmosis and an x-ray of the head. She could still have an inner ear infection. Unfortunately should als suffer from a brain tumor. You may want to get a referral to a veterinary neurologist..