Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome
Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome, also known as rolling skin disease, is a rare illness in domestic cats that causes episodes of agitation, self-mutilation, and a characteristic rippling of the skin when touched. It is often described as a seizure disorder but the cause is unknown.
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[edit] Symptoms
During an episode cats show a number of typical signs, including skin rolling or twitching, self-directed pouncing, or aggressive behaviour such as biting or attacking the tail. There may also be pupil dilation, vocalisation and a general increase in activity.
[edit] Cause
The cause of Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome is unknown. Some experts believe FHS to be a form of epilepsy[1], while others believe it is a behavioural disorder triggered by trauma. Noting that affected cats tend to be dominating rather than submissive, Hollander and Stein argue FHS is conflict displacement in which the cat acts out thwarted territorial disputes on its own body.[2]
Although any age, breed, or sex of cat can develop Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome, those most susceptible include the Siamese, Burmese, and Himalayan breeds.[3]
[edit] Treatment
Treatment includes anti-anxiety medication such as SSRIs, or sedatives.[1][4] Treatment also includes Gabapentin which is a human painkiller for nerve pain and is good for treating phantom leg pain.dose is 10 - 20mg per kg.
[edit] References
- ^ a b Chris C. Pinney (2003), The Complete Home Veterinary Guide, McGraw-Hill Professional, pp. 351-352, ISBN 0071412727, http://books.google.com/books?id=NQa8emazIIIC&pg=PA351
- ^ Eric Hollander, Dan J. Stein (1997), Obsessive-compulsive disorders: diagnosis, etiology, treatment, Informa Health Care, pp. 121, ISBN 0824798562, http://books.google.com/books?id=ydZAKVnkVHMC&pg=PA121
- ^ Dewey, Curtis W. (2003), A practical guide to canine and feline neurology, Wiley-Blackwell, pp. 442, ISBN 0813812496, http://books.google.com/books?id=UmwHXXXzskgC&pg=PA442
- ^ Rand, Jacquie (2006), Problem-based feline medicine, Elsevier Health Sciences, pp. 1016, ISBN 0702024880, http://books.google.com/books?id=DtIIjFfCHSIC&pg=PA1016
[edit] External links
- Darleen Rudnick
- Dr. L.Clarke Cushing
- World Small Animal Veterinary Association - World Congress, Vancouver 2001.
- Dr. Jon
- Felipedia
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