Idiopathic vestibular disease causes sudden, dramatic neurological signs in cats including head tilt and rolling, causing acute distress that usually resolves with supportive care.
The acute phase of vestibular disease causes significant welfare compromise through disorientation, nausea, and inability to coordinate movement. Cats may roll continuously and be unable to stand, causing distress and secondary injuries from repeated falls. Nausea is a significant welfare concern — anti-emetics such as maropitant (Cerenia) provide meaningful welfare benefit during the acute phase. Affected cats require a safe, padded environment to prevent injury during uncontrolled movement episodes. Most cats show progressive improvement within days; the welfare trajectory is generally good. However, owners are often advised to euthanise due to the dramatic presentation — veterinary communication emphasising the favourable prognosis is a critical welfare intervention to prevent premature euthanasia of recoverable animals.