Cerebellar hypoplasia causes lifelong coordination problems in cats resulting from in utero panleukopenia infection, with a welfare profile that requires careful assessment and supportive management.
Feline cerebellar hypoplasia requires careful welfare assessment because the condition appears dramatic but is often compatible with good quality of life. Mildly and moderately affected cats adapt to their coordination deficits and can eat, groom, and interact socially when given appropriate environments. Severely affected cats who cannot feed independently, groom effectively, or avoid self-injury may have significantly compromised welfare despite the non-painful nature of the condition. Environmental modifications including low-sided litter trays, food and water in accessible positions, and soft flooring minimise welfare impacts. Euthanasia should be considered only for severely affected cats with demonstrably poor quality of life.