Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Cats: Welfare Management and Quality of Life

Feline cerebellar hypoplasia causes permanent balance and coordination problems in cats but is non-progressive, and affected cats can enjoy good quality of life with appropriate care.

Key Facts

Cerebellar hypoplasia results from panleukopenia virus infection in utero or in neonates
Affected kittens show tremors, incoordination, and balance problems that become apparent at weaning
The condition is non-progressive: affected cats do not deteriorate over time
Severity varies from mild wobbliness to severe incoordination preventing normal locomotion
Vaccination against panleukopenia during pregnancy prevention is the key welfare intervention

Welfare Considerations

Cats with cerebellar hypoplasia are often euthanised unnecessarily when their long-term quality of life can be very good. Mildly affected cats live essentially normal lives. Severely affected cats require more intensive care but can thrive with appropriate environmental adaptations including low-sided litter trays, food bowls with sides for stability, and restricted access to stairs. The main welfare concern is the risk of injury from falls. Vaccination of breeding queens prevents this condition entirely.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate cats against panleukopenia before and during pregnancy to prevent cerebellar hypoplasia
Consider adopting a cerebellar hypoplasia cat with full understanding of their needs
Provide adapted environments with low litter trays and non-slip flooring for affected cats
Educate others that cerebellar hypoplasia cats can have excellent quality of life
Connect with cerebellar hypoplasia cat owner support communities for advice and resources