Cats’ backs twitch due to their “cutaneous trunci” muscle, which reacts to stimuli like petting or excitement. While usually normal, twitching can indicate medical issues like seizures or Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome (FHS), a neurological disorder causing skin rippling. Consulting a vet helps distinguish normal behavior from health concerns.
Understanding Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome (FHS)
What is Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome?
FHS is a complex and poorly understood condition that affects the nervous system of some cats. It causes them to have episodes of hypersensitivity, twitching, and spasms in their skin, especially along the back and tail. During these episodes, cats may also show signs of anxiety, aggression, or compulsive behavior, such as biting or licking themselves, running around, or vocalizing. The episodes can last from a few seconds to several minutes and can occur randomly or be triggered by stress, touch, or environmental factors.
Symptoms of FHS
The most common symptom of FHS is the twitching or rippling of the skin along the back, from the shoulders to the tail. This may be accompanied by other signs, such as:
- Dilated pupils
- Tail swishing or chasing
- Muscle spasms or contractions
- Excessive grooming, scratching, or biting of the affected area
- Vocalizing, such as hissing, growling, or meowing
- Anxiety, restlessness, or aggression
- Running or hiding
- Hallucinations or staring at nothing
The severity and frequency of the symptoms may vary from cat to cat, and some cats may have mild or occasional episodes, while others may have more frequent or intense ones.
Causes of FHS
The exact cause of FHS is unknown, but it is believed to be related to a dysfunction in the brain or spinal cord that affects the sensory nerves and muscles of the skin. Some possible factors that may contribute to FHS are:
- Genetic predisposition
- Brain lesions or tumors
- Seizure disorders
- Allergies or skin infections
- Stress or anxiety
- Fleas or other parasites
- Environmental changes or stimuli
Cat Breeds Prone to FHS
FHS can affect any cat, regardless of age, sex, or breed, but some breeds may be more susceptible than others. According to some studies, the breeds that have a higher risk of developing FHS are:
- Siamese
- Burmese
- Himalayan
- Persian
- Abyssinian
- Oriental
However, this does not mean that other breeds are immune to FHS, or that all cats of these breeds will have FHS. Each cat is unique and may have different factors that influence their condition.
Diagnosis and Treatment of FHS
How Vets Diagnose FHS?
There is no specific test or marker that can confirm FHS, so the diagnosis is based on the observation of the symptoms and the exclusion of other possible causes. Your vet may perform a physical examination, blood tests, skin tests, or imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may cause similar signs, such as:
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Hyperthyroidism
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Skin disease
- Parasites
- Infections
- Injuries
- Tumors
If no other cause is found, and your cat’s symptoms match the criteria for FHS, your vet may diagnose your cat with FHS.
Treatment Options for FHS
There is no cure for FHS, however, therapies can lessen episode frequency and intensity and enhance your cat’s quality of life. Your vet may recommend one or more of the following treatments for your cat:
- Medications: FHS can be treated with anti-seizure, anti-anxiety, or opioids like buprenorphine or tramadol. These drugs can diminish nerve impulses, soothe the nervous system, and relieve cat pain. They may cause drowsiness, appetite problems, or liver damage, so use them cautiously and under your vet’s supervision.
- Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B complex, and magnesium can strengthen your cat’s neurological system and skin. These vitamins minimize inflammation, increase blood circulation, and regulate nerve activity. They may interact with drugs or trigger adverse reactions, so consult your vet before using them.
- Alternative medicine: Thin needles are inserted into certain body spots to enhance energy flow and facilitate healing. Pain, inflammation, and stress can be reduced and the neurological system balanced by acupuncture. Acupuncture may help some cats with FHS, but further study is needed to validate its efficacy and safety. Find a certified acupuncturist veterinarian if you want to try it for your cat.
- Laser therapy: Another alternative medicine uses low-level laser light to induce cell regeneration and repair. Laser therapy reduces pain, inflammation, and spasms and improves nerve and blood flow. Laser therapy may help some cats with FHS, but further study is needed to confirm its usefulness and safety. Find a laser-trained vet if you want to try laser therapy for your cat.
Recovery and Management of FHS
In addition to the treatments mentioned above, there are some things you can do at home to help your cat cope with FHS and prevent or reduce the episodes. Here are some tips:
- Provide a calm and comfortable environment for your cat, with plenty of hiding places, soft bedding, and toys.
- Avoid touching or petting your cat’s back or tail, especially during an episode, as this may trigger or worsen the symptoms.
- Keep your cat’s nails trimmed and use a soft brush to groom your cat gently, to prevent skin damage from scratching or biting.
- Use flea and tick prevention products regularly, and check your cat’s skin for any signs of parasites, allergies, or infections.
- Reduce stress and anxiety in your cat, by avoiding loud noises, sudden changes, or unfamiliar people or animals. You can also use calming products, such as pheromones, herbs, or music, to help your cat relax.
- Provide your cat with enough mental and physical stimulation, by playing with them, providing them with interactive toys, or giving them access to a window or a cat tree.
- Monitor your cat’s symptoms and behavior, and keep a record of the episodes, such as their frequency, duration, triggers, and severity. This can help you and your vet track your cat’s progress and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
- Follow your vet’s instructions and recommendations, and take your cat for regular check-ups and tests.