Strange Short Fits

Hello. My cat Ellie has been having what I can only describe as weird flip-outs, or fits - usually (but not always) in the dead of night and not lasting more than about 5 or 10 seconds. She'll suddenly spaz out like she's being attacked by something invisible (no, this isn't just some inscrutable cat game!), legs flailing about as if she can't control them. She will sometimes get to her feet but be unable to stay standing - often staggering sideways until she falls over again and flips out some more.

As I said above this only seems to last for a few seconds, but it leaves her bewildered and visibly upset, often not wanting company afterwards. It started about 4-6 weeks ago and as far as I know (I'm at work all day), has only happened 3 or 4 times. Only the last few were only three nights apart. As I also indicated above, this isn't restricted to night, as the first time I was there to see it, she had just jumped down from the bathroom counter in the middle of the day.

I've been to see the vet about this, and am considering a follow-up blood panel and x-ray. Has anyone experienced anything similar to this, or do any of these incidences I'm describing seem familiar to anyone? I've searched some online for similar descriptions but the accounts of 'seizures' I've read don't seem to fit. My cat seems to remain conscious, does not go limp or rigid. Any thoughts? I'll try to add more detail if I think of anything relevant.

Thanks guys !

It sounds to me like "cluster seizures" lasting a very short time but happening often. Having a seizure cat myself, I'm reading what you wrote about legs flailing, can't stay standing, staggering sideways until she falls over again, etc. These are symptoms of seizures.

Absolutely follow up with the -x-ray which will show if they are one of the many types of seizures (sounds like cluster to me, though, but they can have different types and different times; mine did). The x-ray will show if the neurons in the brain have been frazzled (seizures "fry" the neurons in the brain which is why they have such high fevers while going through seizures (From Red Cross Book). If cat feels super hot, be sure to put some cool (not cold) damp cloths over head, drip some over back, then lay washcloth on back, keep them cooled down on your way to the vet (in Red Cross first aid we learn things to do to keep the cat/dog alive before going to vet to give them a better chance of living).

There's lots more, but until the x-ray confirms seizures or whatever this is, I'll refrain.

If it is seizures, keeping your baby's environment stress-free will help a lot!

Are you looking up "Feline Seizures?"

The falling down is very concerning. Cats spaz all the time, but losing balance and seeming lethargic after are signs of seizure.

Let us know how it goes after the Vet! I'd personally be interested to know!

Warmly,

Julie O'
Red-Cross certified in emergency dog and cat first aid (to include seizures)

It would be really good if you could videotape your cat when this is taking place, to then 'show' your Vet.