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Hyperesthesia in cats, also known as Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome (FHS), is an unexplained neurological disorder that affects cats. A cat with FHS may show signs of obsessive licking, tail chasing, rippling of the skin, and over-sensitivity to touch. FHS may be triggered by different factors, such as fleas, environmental stress, myositis, seizures, and spinal or neuropathic pain. It can also be a compulsive behavioural disorder and the exact cause of hyperesthesia in cats is often unknown. It can be difficult to diagnose because it shares many of the same symptoms as other disorders. This article discusses hyperesthesia in cats (FHS) and the treatments for this unusual condition.
The exact underlying cause of feline hyperesthesia syndrome is unknown. Hyperesthesia syndrome is unique to cats as this does not occur in dogs. This condition is also known as Rolling Skin Disease or Twitchy Cat Disease. It affects all breeds, ages, and genders of cats. It is most common in the Siamese, Burmese, Persian, and Abyssinian types. Interestingly, most cats are 1-5 years of age when they first show symptoms.
Signs that your cat may have hyperesthesia syndrome can vary however, some common signs include the following:
There is no definitive test for diagnosing feline hyperesthesia syndrome. Diagnosis of feline hyperesthesia syndrome is based on clinical presentation. A diagnosis is often made by ruling out other medical conditions that cause similar signs and symptoms, such as flea allergy dermatitis or food allergy/intolerance, identifying the pattern to your cat's behavior, and eliminating any underlying pain issues (e.g., arthritis).
Treatment for hyperesthesia syndrome is based on the underlying cause:
Allergic Disease: If the cause is considered to be a food allergy, try a hypoallergic diet or a new protein diet. If a flea allergy is suspected, treat your cat for fleas and talk with your vet about starting corticosteroids.
Seizure Disorder: If the activity is thought to be a form of seizure activity, anti-seizure medication may be used.
Pain: If pain is believed to be a trigger, then appropriate medications (e.g. gabapentin) should be considered to alleviate the pain.
Behavioral Disorder: If it is thought that your cat is suffering from a behavioral disorder, such as anxiety; Starting anti-anxiety medications like clomipramine or fluoxetine should be considered.
As many cats with hyperesthesia often have aggression as a symptom, it is very important to have this evaluated by your veterinarian. A cat that experiences new and random aggressive outbursts should have hyperesthesia syndrome ruled out as with successful treatment, both you and your cat will be much happier.
Many cats with hyperesthesia syndrome, regardless of the underlying cause will react when their back is touched. Therefore, if you notice similar symptoms mentioned above and your cat seems very sensitive around its back area or if the skin ripples when touched, feline hyperesthesia syndrome should be investigated.
The prognosis is unpredictable. Some cats respond favorably to one or more of the therapies mentioned above. Because the condition might be controlled but not cured, long-term therapy is usually required.
In many cases, hyperesthesia syndrome appears suddenly. However, it is also possible for the condition to develop gradually over time.
Yes, stress can be a trigger for hyperesthesia syndrome in cats. environmental or emotional stressors may cause a cat to start exhibiting hyperesthesia symptoms. In these cases, consider discussing anti-anxiety medications with your veterinarian.
If your cat suddenly starts exhibiting unusual behavior, you should contact your veterinarian immediately because this could be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires immediate attention. Also, remember to always visit us here at Kingsdale Animal Hospital for any concerns about your cat.
Some cats may experience seizure-like behavior as a symptom of hyperesthesia, but not all hyperesthetic cats will have this issue. If your cat seems to be having uncontrolled movement or tremors, you should contact your veterinarian right away so that they can rule out seizure activity.
In most cases, hyperesthesia syndrome is not necessarily painful but is there is a large degree of discomfort. If your cat experiences any of the symptoms mentioned above and seems to be in discomfort or pain, you should contact your veterinarian so that they can help alleviate any discomfort in your cat.
Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome (FHS) is a condition in cats that causes rippling of the skin and agitation. Feline hyperesthesia syndrome is an unusual condition because the demonstrated behaviors may be triggered by different factors, such as fleas, environmental stress, myositis, seizures, spinal or neuropathic pain, and other sources of pain. Feline hyperesthesia syndrome may also be a compulsive behavioral disorder. Treatment for hyperesthesia is focused on addressing the underlying cause and while most cats respond well to treatment, the prognosis is variable.
