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Circling, Turning in Circles in cats

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Circling or turning in circles in cats is an abnormal movement pattern in which the cat repeatedly walks in a circular motion. This behavior can indicate neurological, physical, or psychologicalPsychological refers to anything related to the mind or behavior. In veterinary medicine, this can include the study of animal behavior, including stress responses and behavioral disorders. causes and should be taken seriously.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

Cats that turn in circles may be suffering from a variety of health problems. One of the most common causes is a disorder 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.. Such disorders can be caused by infections, inflammatory conditions, or tumors in the brain. In particular, diseases affecting the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance, can lead to such behavior.

Another possible cause is an injury or traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries. that has led to a concussion or damage to the brain. In such cases, circling may occur as a result of disorientation or impaired motor function.

In addition, infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. diseases such as toxoplasmosis or FelineFeline refers to anything related to cats. The term is used to describe diseases, behaviors, or anatomical aspects that are specific to cats. InfectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. Peritonitis (FIP) can cause neurological symptoms that include circling. These diseases are often associated with other symptoms such as fever or weight loss.

It is also possible that the behavior is triggered by psychologicalPsychological refers to anything related to the mind or behavior. In veterinary medicine, this can include the study of animal behavior, including stress responses and behavioral disorders. stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being.. In such cases, circling may be a sign of anxiety or nervousness, especially in an environment that is new or frightening for the cat. 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. stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. can lead to behavioral changes that can manifest in various forms, including circling.

Another factor could be a toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. reaction to certain substances. Cats are sensitive to many chemicals and toxins that may be present in their environment. IngestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems. of such substances can lead to neurological symptoms, including circling.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Disorientation: The cat appears confused and cannot find its way around its environment. This can be demonstrated by uncoordinated running and bumping into furniture or walls.
Balance disorders: In addition to circling, difficulties walking or standing may also occur. The cat may stagger or stumble frequently.
Behavioral changes: The cat may show unusual aggressiveness, 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 withdrawal. Such behavioral changes can indicate pain or discomfort.
Loss of appetite: A lack of appetite can be an accompanying symptom, especially if the cat is suffering from a systemic disease.
Uncontrolled movements: Twitching, tremors, or convulsions may occur if there are neurological causes.
Eye symptoms: Changes in eye movement, such as nystagmus (rapid, uncontrolled eye movements), may occur.

When to visit the vet?

A veterinarian should be consulted as soon as circling or other abnormal behaviors are noticed. The visit is particularly urgent if the cat also shows one or more of the above-mentioned symptoms, as this may indicate serious health problems.

If the circling starts suddenly and for no apparent reason, or if it is accompanied by convulsions or severe tremors, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately. These symptoms may indicate acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. neurological problems that require immediate treatment.

Even if the symptoms appear mild, a visit to the veterinarian is advisable to identify the underlying cause and avoid serious health consequences. 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 are crucial for the cat’s recovery.

Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures

It is important for pet owners to watch out for signs of disorientation, balance disorders, or behavioral changes. Circling is often a conspicuous symptom that should not be ignored. Also, note any other unusual behaviors or symptoms that your cat is showing to give the veterinarian a comprehensive overview.

The veterinary diagnostic process usually begins with a thorough clinical examination of the cat. This includes a neurological examination to assess the function of the nervous system. Blood tests can be performed to detect infections or systemic diseases.

In some cases, diagnostic imagingDiagnostic imaging includes medical procedures that create images of the inside of the body to diagnose, monitor, or treat diseases and injuries. Examples include X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)., such as X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan, may be necessary to identify structural abnormalities in the brain or other parts of the body. These procedures are particularly important if a tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. or other serious condition is suspected.

Depending on the results of the initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. examinations, specific tests, such as 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 be necessary to confirm or rule out inflammatory or infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. causes.

What can pet owners do and professional therapy options

Until the veterinarian visit, the pet owner should try to make the cat’s environment as calm and safe as possible. Avoid sudden changes or loud noises that could cause additional stress.

Make sure the cat has access to water and food, even if it does not show an appetite. It is important that it stays hydrated. If the cat has difficulty eating or drinking on its own, it may be necessary to assist it with soft food or water using a syringe.

Avoid overwhelming or forcing the cat to move if it has balance disorders. Keep it in a safe space to minimize the risk of injury from falls or bumping into furniture.

It is also helpful to take notes on the cat’s behavior and symptoms to provide the veterinarian with detailed information. This can facilitate 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. and the decision on the best treatment.

Outlook on current research

Research into the symptom of circling in cats is a fascinating and complex field that focuses on the neurological and behavioral aspects of this behavior. Scientists are currently investigating the exact mechanisms that cause cats to exhibit this behavior. One focus is on the role of the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation. Recent studies indicate that abnormalities in this system, such as inflammatory conditions or tumors, can lead to a disturbed sense of balance, which explains the circling.

In addition, the genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. of cats to neurological diseases such as vestibular syndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. is being intensively researched. Researchers are trying to identify specific genetic markers that could be helpful in 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. and preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of such symptoms. InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. results suggest that certain breeds may be more susceptible to this type of problem, which could lead to targeted breeding programs to minimize the risk.

Another important area of research is the effect of environmental factors on the behavior of cats. StressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., nutrition, and habitat design can influence the occurrence of circling. Scientists are investigating how changes in the environment or management of cats can positively influence behavior. For example, adjustments in diet or the use of calming pheromones may help reduce the occurrence of circling.

Clinical research is also testing the effectiveness of various treatment methods. Veterinarians and researchers are working together to develop the best approaches to treat the underlying causes of circling. These include both drug treatments and alternative therapies such as acupuncture and 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.. These studies are crucial to develop evidence-based treatment guidelines and improve the quality of life of affected cats.

Finally, there is also a growing interest in technological solutions for monitoring and analyzing the behavior of cats. Wearable technologies and advanced imaging techniques are being used to collect more precise data on the movement behavior of cats. These innovations could revolutionize future research and lead to new insights into circling and similar symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

What does it mean if my cat is walking in circles? Circling or turning in circles can indicate neurological problems, balance disorders, or behavioral problems. It is important to have the cause clarified by a veterinarian.
Is circling in cats always a sign of illness? Not necessarily. Sometimes it can also be a temporary behavior due to stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. or disorientation. However, if it occurs frequently, a veterinarian should be consulted.
Can stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. cause my cat to walk in circles? Yes, stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. can lead to various behavioral changes in cats, including circling. It is important to identify and minimize stressors.
Are certain cat breeds more prone to circling? Some research suggests that certain breeds may be more prone to neurological problems due to genetic predispositions. However, there is no definitive list.
What examinations are necessary to determine the cause of the circling? A veterinarian may recommend neurological examinations, blood tests, imaging procedures such as X-rays or MRI, and possibly genetic tests.
What treatment options are available for cats that walk in circles? Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, dietary changes, or alternative therapies such as acupuncture.
Can a change in diet affect circling in cats? In some cases, a change in diet can help, especially if the behavior is related to nutrient deficiencies or allergies. Consult a veterinarian for specific recommendations.
How can I help my cat that is walking in circles? Make sure their environment is safe and stress-free, and seek veterinary advice to clarify the cause of the behavior.
Is circling in cats similar to that in dogs? While the behavior may appear similar, the causes can be different. Veterinary clarification is important in both species.
Can technology help to better understand circling in cats? Yes, wearable technologies and advanced imaging can help to monitor the behavior and better understand the causes.

Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.