other name: cervical spondylomyelopathy Overview Wobbler Syndrome, or Cervical Spondylomyelopathy, is a condition characterized by spinal cord compression in the neck due to abnormal bone development, excessive soft tissue growth, and/or disc displacement. It’s most common in large and giant breed dogs, specifically Dobermans and Great Danes. Causes Wobbler Syndrome likely has several contributing factors, including … Read moreWobbler Syndrome
Overview Vertebral malformation is a condition some dogs and cats are born with, where parts of their spine don’t develop quite the way they should. Instead of forming long, evenly shaped bones, one or more of the vertebrae may become malformed. Because of their unusual shape, these bones don’t always line up properly with the … Read moreVertebral Malformations
Overview The subarachnoid space is a compartment within the spinal that normally contains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This fluid flows continuously and plays a vital role in cushioning the spinal cord and removing waste. However, when CSF flow becomes disrupted or irregular, it can lead to the formation of a subarachnoid diverticulum (SAD) — a fluid-filled … Read moreSubarachnoid Diverticulum
Overview Steroid-Responsive Meningitis-Arteritis (SRMA) is an inflammatory condition that affects the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord (called the meninges), as well as the nearby blood vessels. It’s an immune-mediated disorder, meaning the dog’s immune system becomes overactive and mistakenly targets its own tissues. It usually seen in young dogs under two years … Read moreSteroid Responsive Meningitis-Arteritis
other names: IVDD, disc herniation/rupture, slipped disc, pinched nerve Overview Intervertebral discs are located in between the bones of a dog’s back and neck. Intervertebral discs normally act as cushions or “shock absorbers” to prevent the bones of the spine from coming in contact with each other, which could cause discomfort. There are two components … Read moreIntervertebral Disc Disease
other names: FCE, ischemic myelopathy Overview Fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE) is a sudden, stroke-like condition that affects the spinal cord. While the underlying cause remains unclear, the condition results from an abrupt blockage of blood supply to part of the spinal cord. This lack of blood flow to the spinal cord results in neurological deficits. FCE … Read moreFibrocartilaginous Embolism
Overview Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome (FHS) is a complex condition in cats marked by heightened skin sensitivity, episodes of self-mutilation, and sudden, erratic behaviors. These episodes may be triggered by touch, stress, or may occur without warning. Young to middle-aged cats, particularly Siamese and other Oriental breeds, seem to be more commonly affected, suggesting a potential … Read moreFeline Hyperesthesia Syndrome
Overview Discospondylitis is an infection that affects the discs between the bones of the spine (called intervertebral discs) and the ends of the bones themselves. In more severe cases, the infection can spread to the meninges (the protective covering of the spinal cord) or form a pocket of pus inside the spinal canal. Causes This … Read moreDiscospondylitis
Overview Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the spinal cord in dogs. It leads to a gradual decline in coordination, muscle strength, and limb function over the course of months to years, as the spinal cord slowly deteriorates. Causes Degenerative myelopathy is caused by a genetic mutation in a gene called SOD1, … Read moreDegenerative Myelopathy
other name: AA instability Overview Atlantoaxial (AA) subluxation is a condition affecting the joint between the first two vertebrae (bones) in the neck: the first bone is called the atlas, and the second bone is the axis. These bones support the skull and allow for a wide range of head motion. Under normal circumstances, the … Read moreAtlantoaxial Subluxation
