![]() ![]() Solutions that draw fluids from the tissues (hyperosmotic solutions) and/or decrease the production of spinal fluid, such as mannitol, may be given. Drugs may be administered to prevent or treat swelling of the brain tissue. Diazepam (Valium®) or phenobarbital may be given to control these seizures. Seizures may occur in animals that have suffered brain trauma. Your veterinarian may provide pain-killers as needed. An intravenous catheter will be placed to allow fluids to be given to prevent dehydration. Abnormalities may become apparent as the brain swells or bleeding occurs into or around the tissues. Even if your cat initially seems normal, it is wise to have your veterinarian observe him for 24 hours to allow repeat neurologic examinations to be done. If your cat has evidence of head trauma, your veterinarian will perform repeat neurological examinations because the status of the injured brain can change quickly. The treatment of head trauma will depend upon the cause and magnitude of the injury. If indicated, your veterinarian may recommend radiographs in order to look for skull or spinal fractures and CT scan to look for fractures as well as brain injury. Once your veterinarian has the opportunity to examine your pet thoroughly, trauma to the abdomen, chest or even fractures of the limbs may be noted. Other injuries, particularly those that are not life-threatening, may have been overlooked during the initial examination when your cat’s condition was critical. Your veterinarian will perform a more complete physical examination as soon as your cat is stable. A more complete neurologic examination may need to wait until your cat is alert however, eventually it will be important to determine if there are other significant injuries, such as to the spinal cord. The size of the pupils and their response of light will also be tested to help determine the severity of the injury. During the initial evaluation, your cat’s level of consciousness will be assessed. Your veterinarian will need to rapidly assess your cat’s status, which may include evaluation of brain function and determination of the site of the damage. Tests and procedures that your veterinarian may wish to perform include: A complete medical history and physical examination are important parts of the initial diagnosis of head trauma. Veterinary care should include diagnostic tests and subsequent treatment recommendations.ĭiagnostic tests are needed to recognize head trauma and determine its severity. If you suspect that your cat has suffered head trauma observe him for the following: Other causes include blunt trauma such as being hit by bats or swings or being stepped on, falls, gunshot wounds or animal fights.īelow is an overview of head trauma in cats followed by detailed in-depth information on this emergency condition.īrain dysfunction may be the result of concussion, swelling, bruising, laceration, fractures, compression or bleeding. ![]() In cats it may occur due to a variety of causes, the most common of which is a motor vehicle accident. Head trauma is a blunt or penetrating injury occurring to the head. ![]()
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