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Polioencephalomyelitis (Brain and spinal cord inflammation) in cats

Occurrence: rarer
Location of illness: Head/Neck

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 03.12.2025

Polioencephalomyelitis in cats is an inflammatory disease that affects the brain and spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body. and can lead to neurological symptoms.

The most important facts at a glance

Polioencephalomyelitis is a disease that affects the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior. of cats, especially the brain and spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body.. This inflammation can be caused by viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections, such as the FelineFeline refers to anything related to cats. The term is used to describe diseases, behaviors, or anatomical aspects that are specific to cats. Coronavirus, but bacterial or parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. infections as well as autoimmune reactions can also play a role. Symptoms include uncoordinated walking, paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system., and convulsions. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. requires a comprehensive examination by the veterinarian, including imaging procedures and cerebrospinal fluidCerebrospinal fluid is a clear, colorless liquid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. It acts as a shock absorber and is involved in regulating the chemical environment of the CNS (central nervous system). examinations. Treatment depends on the cause: ViralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections are usually treated supportively, while antibiotics are used for bacterial infections. Autoimmune causes may require anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain.. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. varies depending on the cause and severity of the disease. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is possible through a comprehensive vaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases. plan, as well as regular parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. control and a healthy lifestyle for the cat. Research focuses on identifying specific pathogens, developing more effective therapies, and improving diagnostic methods. The goal is to reduce the incidenceIncidence refers to the number of new cases of a disease or condition that occur within a specific time period in a specific population group. It provides information about the risk of contracting the disease. and severity of this neurological disease in cats.

Causes

Polioencephalomyelitis is a complex disease that primarily affects the cat’s central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior.. The central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior., consisting of the brain and spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body., is responsible for controlling and coordinating the entire body. Inflammation in these areas can therefore have far-reaching effects on the cat’s health and behavior.

The cause of polioencephalomyelitis can be varied. Often, viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections are the main culprits, with the FelineFeline refers to anything related to cats. The term is used to describe diseases, behaviors, or anatomical aspects that are specific to cats. Coronavirus (FCoV) potentially playing a significant role. These viruses can penetrate the nervous system and triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. an inflammatory immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. there. Bacterial or parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. infections can also lead to a similar inflammatory immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens..

An autoimmune response, in which the cat’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. mistakenly attacks its own nerve tissue, can also lead to polioencephalomyelitis. These autoimmune processes are often difficult to diagnose and treat because the exact triggers are not always clear.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Uncoordinated Gait (Ataxia)

Common symptoms:

Symptoms of polioencephalomyelitis in cats can vary depending on which parts of the brain and spinal cord are affected. Common symptoms include behavioral changes such as apathyApathy refers to a state of indifference and reduced interest or lack of emotional involvement in activities or events that would normally arouse interest. or aggressiveness, convulsions, and balance disorders. Cats may also show difficulty walking, which can manifest as an unsteady or swaying gait.

In some cases, the cat may show a decreased responsiveness to environmental stimuli, including a reduced reaction to noises or movements. Loss of appetite and weight loss are other possible signs that may indicate a neurological impairment.

Another common symptom is weakness of the limbs. Affected cats may have difficulty jumping or climbing, which indicates an impairment of motor skills. In severe cases, paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. can occur.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of polioencephalomyelitis in cats requires a comprehensive clinical examination by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will first conduct a thorough medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. and assess the cat’s symptoms. A neurologyNeurology is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nervous system. This includes the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system. exam is crucial to determine the severity and location of the neurological impairment.

Imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. or computed tomography (CT)Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. It enables a detailed view of bones, organs, and other structures and is used for the diagnosis of injuries, diseases, and for planning medical interventions. can be used to visualize abnormalities in the brain and spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body.. These procedures are helpful in identifying foci of inflammation or other structural changes.

A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), also known as Liquor cerebrospinalis or brain-spinal fluid, surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It serves as protection and for the nutrient supply of the central nervous system as well as for the disposal of metabolic products. tap, in which a sample of spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body. fluid is taken, can also be performed to detect signs of inflammation or infection-related changes. Blood tests can help detect systemic infections or autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus..

Therapy

The treatment of polioencephalomyelitis in cats depends on the underlying cause. For viral infections, supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. therapy may be necessary to relieve symptoms and promote recovery. In some cases, antiviral drugs can be used to reduce the viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. load.

If there is a bacterial infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., antibiotics are administered to combat the pathogens. For autoimmune causes, anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. such as corticosteroidsCorticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that occur naturally in the body and can also be produced synthetically. They have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and are used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions. can be used to suppress the immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. and reduce inflammation.

In addition to drug treatment, supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. care may be necessary to improve the cat’s quality of life. This may include physiotherapyVeterinary physiotherapy encompasses a range of treatment methods aimed at improving the mobility and well-being of animals through exercise, massage, and other manual techniques. to promote motor skills, as well as an adapted diet to stabilize the cat’s nutritional status.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for cats with polioencephalomyelitis varies greatly and depends on the cause and severity of the disease. In many cases, early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment can alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. However, some cats may experience permanent neurological damage despite treatment.

For viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. or bacterial infections, the prognosis can be favorable if the infection is detected and treated early. Autoimmune causes are often more difficult to control and can lead to chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. or recurrentRecurrent refers to a disease that repeatedly returns or worsens after a temporary remission or improvement. symptoms.

In severe cases, where the neurological damage progresses or worsens, the prognosis may be unfavorable, and humane euthanasia may be considered to end the cat’s suffering.

Prevention

To minimize the risk of polioencephalomyelitis in cats, a comprehensive vaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases. strategy is crucial. Regular vaccinations protect cats from many viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections that can be associated with this disease. The veterinarian can create a suitable vaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases. plan based on the cat’s age, health, and lifestyle. Especially indoor cats should be vaccinated regularly to stay protected even in closed environments.

Other preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. measures include controlling parasites such as fleas and ticks, as they can act as vectors for infections. A regular deworming program also contributes to preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring.. In addition, cats should be kept away from potential sources of infection, including unknown animals and unclean environments.

A healthy diet and a stress-free environment strengthen the cat’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., making it more resistantResistant means being insensitive to a substance, drug, or treatment. In dogs and cats, resistance can refer to the ineffectiveness of antibiotics against certain bacterial strains or the insensitivity of parasites to certain pesticides. to infections. It is also advisable to pay attention to hygiene in the household, for example by cleaning cat litter boxes regularly. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to detect and treat general health problems early, which increases the cat’s overall resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins. to disease.

Outlook on current research

Polioencephalomyelitis in cats is a serious disease that affects both the brain and spinal cord and can lead to a variety of neurological symptoms. So far, the exact causes of this inflammation are not fully understood, but it is believed that both viral and bacterial infections could play a role. Current research is intensively investigating how the cat’s immune system reacts to these infections and why inflammation is triggered in some cases, while other cats show no or only mild symptoms.

A significant focus of research is on identifying the specific pathogens that can cause polioencephalomyelitis. Various studies have already considered potential candidates such as the FelineFeline refers to anything related to cats. The term is used to describe diseases, behaviors, or anatomical aspects that are specific to cats. Coronavirus and the FelineFeline refers to anything related to cats. The term is used to describe diseases, behaviors, or anatomical aspects that are specific to cats. Immunodeficiency VirusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. Through the precise analysis of tissue samples from affected cats, scientists are trying to understand the mechanisms that lead to the inflammatory reaction. Advances in molecular diagnostics offer new possibilities to identify the genetic factors that could make some cats more susceptible to this disease.

Another area of research is focused on developing more effective treatment strategies. Currently, there is no specific therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. for polioencephalomyelitis in cats, and treatment is mostly focused on relieving symptoms. New approaches being tested in clinical trials include the use of antiviral drugs that could slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease. ImmunomodulatoryImmunomodulatory describes the ability of a substance to modify the reaction of the immune system. Immunomodulatory drugs can either stimulate the immune system to fight infections more effectively or suppress it to prevent overreactions. therapies are also being explored to control the inflammatory immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. in the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior..

In the long term, researchers hope to reduce the incidenceIncidence refers to the number of new cases of a disease or condition that occur within a specific time period in a specific population group. It provides information about the risk of contracting the disease. and severity of this neurological disease in cats through a combination of preventive vaccines, improved diagnostic methods, and targeted therapies. The interdisciplinarity of the research, which combines virology, neurologyNeurology is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nervous system. This includes the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system., and immunology, promises to achieve significant progress in the coming years.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is Polioencephalomyelitis in Cats? Polioencephalomyelitis is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord in cats that can be caused by infections or other factors. It leads to neurological symptoms such as paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system., behavioral changes, and convulsions.
How is Polioencephalomyelitis Diagnosed? The diagnosis is usually made through a combination of clinical examination, neurological assessment, and imaging techniques such as MRI or CT. An analysis of the cerebrospinal fluidCerebrospinal fluid is a clear, colorless liquid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. It acts as a shock absorber and is involved in regulating the chemical environment of the CNS (central nervous system). may also be necessary to confirm inflammatory processes.
What Symptoms Occur in Affected Cats? Symptoms can include lethargy, coordination disorders, muscle tremors, seizures, behavioral changes, and in severe cases, paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system.. The symptoms depend on the affected area of the nervous system.
How is Polioencephalomyelitis Treated? There is no specific treatment for the disease. The therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. focuses on relieving symptoms and may include anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain., anticonvulsantsAnticonvulsants, also called antiepileptic drugs, are medications used to control or prevent seizures. They are used in dogs and cats with epilepsy or other conditions that cause seizures., and supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. care.
Is Polioencephalomyelitis ContagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious. in Cats? The disease itself is not directly contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious., but the pathogens that can cause it, such as viruses, can be transmitted from cat to cat. Precautions are important to prevent the spread.
Can All Cats Get Polioencephalomyelitis? Theoretically, any cat can be affected, but younger cats, cats with weakened immune systems, or cats that are exposed to certain pathogens are at higher risk.
Is There a Way to Prevent Polioencephalomyelitis? There is no specific preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring., but good hygiene practices, regular vaccinations, and protectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment. against infections can reduce the risk. A healthy lifestyle also strengthens the cat’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body..
What is the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for cats with polioencephalomyelitis? The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. varies depending on the severity of the inflammation and the affected areas of the nervous system. Some cats may recover completely, while others may develop permanent neurological damage.
What Role Do Genetic Factors Play in the Disease? Research is currently investigating whether genetic predispositions play a role. There is evidence that some cats are more sensitive to certain pathogens, which could be influenced by genetic factors.
Can Other Animals or Humans Be Infected by a Cat with Polioencephalomyelitis? Humans are not at risk, but other cats can be infected by common pathogens if they are not adequately protected. It is important to isolate infected cats to prevent spread.

When to visit the vet?

Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.