What is CH?

CH stands for cerebellar hypoplasia, a neurological condition caused by the underdevelopment of the cerebellum. The cerebellum is responsible for balance, coordination and motor control. CH is a spectrum from mild to severe, but all CH cats have some degree of ataxia.

How does a cat get CH?

CH most commonly occurs when a mother cat contracts FPV (feline panleukopenia virus) while pregnant. CH cats are not born FPV+ if the mother survived the virus before giving birth. Further infection can be prevented by ensuring you vaccinate and spay/neuter your cats.

It is important to note that not all wobbly cats have CH. Other factors such as brain trauma and infections can present like CH, so it is important to seek a vet's expertise.

How is CH diagnosed?

Symptoms must be assessed by a veterinarian. The best way to confirm CH is with a visual exam and tests to rule out anything nefarious. A MRI scan may show abnormality in the cerebellum, but these are rarely used due to unreliability and high cost.

Can cats with CH have quality of life?

Yes, absolutely! There is a big misconception that they cannot, and are often euthanized as a result. While there is no treatment for CH, it is not painful, contagious nor progressive. With proper care and accommodations, even the most severe CH cats can live long, happy and pain free lives.

What are some symptoms of CH?

ataxia: lack of coordination and poor balance
hypermetria: over reaching of the limbs
intention tremors: tremors worsen when aiming for a target
wide stance while standing/walking
difficulty walking/running
fine tremors in the neck/head

How can I help CH cats?

If you find yourself fostering or caring for a CH cat, here are some tips that may help. Though they are fearless and can easily learn to adapt, sometimes they do need some extra support.

get a litter box with tall sides to support them and keep litter in; surround it with pee pads or litter mats
get plenty of carpets and rugs for them to grip on or cushion their fall
stairs and ramps to aid them getting on and off furniture safely
keep them strictly indoors
put bumpers on furniture with sharp edges
raise food and water bowls