We encounter numerous Spinal cord diseases everyday. We have found that diagnosing the Spinal diseases in its early stages can help prevent further worsening of symptoms. In this article we briefly try and demonstrate some simplified concepts and most common signs & symptoms that can be easily noticed by Pet owners and thus help prevent further Neurological dysfunction.
Changes in Behavior :
- Some Spinal diseases are associated with pain, docile pets become aggressive/whine when suddenly lifted and may even try to bite.
- Some show marked depression and fatigue due to the pain and are reluctant to move.
Changes in Posture :
- One needs a keen eye to spot this one.
- Lowered neck position.
- Arched back.
- Trembling while standing.
Knuckling / Proprioceptive loss - The "CARDINAL SIGN":
As shown in the above pictures, loss of proprioception is evident which in simple terms can be described as knuckling. This can be evident while standing or dragging of legs will be seen in a similar manner.
Changes in Gait / Walk & Loss of Balance:
- This can be appreciated while the pet is walking on a non-slippery surface like a hard ground or in a garden.
- A keen eye can spot the change in style of walks, disoriented gait, excessive swaying of the back. Some people even describe it as a "Drunken Gait".
Paraparesis & Paraplegia / Partial and Complete paralysis :
- Inability to support the hind legs, or all the four legs.
- Loss of function of hind legs.
- Loss of control over urine and stools along with inability to get up.
