TL;DR: Sudden spinal sensitivity in cats indicates localized pain or neurological discomfort and typically requires a veterinary exam within 24 to 48 hours. It becomes an emergency if your cat loses the use of its hind legs or bladder control.
What does it mean if my cat has sudden sensitivity along their spine?
Sudden sensitivity along a cat's spine, often manifesting as skin twitching, vocalization, or aggressive reactions to touch, typically indicates localized pain or neurological discomfort. This can be caused by various issues ranging from muscular strain and arthritis to Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome or intervertebral disc disease.
Is my cat's spinal sensitivity a veterinary emergency?
- The urgency level for sudden spinal sensitivity is Medium, as it indicates significant discomfort or nerve pain.
- Schedule a veterinary exam within 24 to 48 hours for a non-emergency evaluation.
- Seek immediate emergency care if the sensitivity is accompanied by a sudden inability to use the hind legs or loss of bladder control.
How can a photo or video of my cat help with the triage process?
- Capture a video of your cat's reaction to touch or behavior during a "flare-up" to show the vet how they act at home.
- Record instances of skin rippling or vocalization, as cats often mask these symptoms in a stressful clinic environment.
- Take a clear photo of the affected area to help identify external triggers such as flea allergy dermatitis, wounds, or localized swelling.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
In cats, spinal cord sensitivity can be caused by lymphoma, the most common spinal neoplasia, often presenting as an acute or slowly progressive, painful lesion. Approximately 85% of affected cats test positive for feline leukemia virus, and many have leukemic bone marrow. Extradural tumors, found outside the dura mater and causing spinal cord compression, are the most common spinal tumors in cats. Diagnosis of spinal neoplasia is based on radiography, myelography, CT, or MRI, and surgical biopsy.
Chapter: Neurology, Oncology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 1253)