Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Vestibular Syndrome in Dogs

Dogs can suffer from vestibular symptoms. It affects mainly older quadrupeds. You will learn how to recognize it and the symptoms.

The vestibular disorder is similar to stroke. Both diseases have symptoms that are nearly identical. Only a veterinarian is able to make a definitive diagnose. More information on strokes in canines is available in our guide Can dogs have a stroke?

Vestibular syndrome in dogs: Possible causes

A circulatory disorder of the so-called “vestibular organ” is the most common cause. The vestibular organ is in the inner ear. It controls balance.

The blood flow to the organ can be disturbed by a variety of factors. This can be due to cardiac insufficiency or an inflammation of the body. A tumor disease is also possible. The vestibular disorder is not an illness in itself, but rather a sign of another condition.

Vestibular Syndrome Symptoms

The vestibular disorder can also cause similar symptoms to a stroke. The dog might suddenly fall, not be able to sit up or hold its head in an angle.

The dogs also suffer from vomiting, nausea and excessive salivation. Dizziness makes it difficult for them to reach their bowl.

This is a list of symptoms that may be associated with vestibular disorder:

Balance problems

Dizziness

Head tilt

Twitching the eyeballs

Confusión

nausea and vomiting

If you notice any of the symptoms above, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. The earlier dogs receive help, the greater their chance of recovery.

Here’s how to treat the disease.

The veterinarian may prescribe anti-nausea or anti-vomiting medication if the dog has a mild vestibular disorder. Anti-inflammatory agents, as well as certain vitamins supplements can help.

Dogs with severe cases can be treated by administering infusions to improve fluid balance, stimulate blood circulation and increase blood flow.

After veterinary treatment: What you can Do

After a dog has recovered from illness, it needs to be given lots of love and rest. Make sure your dog’s bed is comfortable and that your home is safe.

Your pet should be feeling much better after one to two weeks. After four to eight week, most of the discomfort has disappeared. The only thing that can be left is a slight head tilt, and very rarely numbness.

Note The veterinarian must determine and treat the underlying condition that caused the vestibular disorder. A relapse could occur.