Abstract

Backgrounds:
Concurrent idiopathic vestibular syndrome (IVS) and idiopathic facial paralysis (IFP) are rare, benign, and self-limiting conditions with a favorable prognosis in cats. Given the rarity of this condition, only a single case report has described its clinical profile.

Case Description:
This report describes five feline cases with concurrent IVS and IFP. All five cats exhibited clinical signs, including head tilt, vestibular ataxia, and palpebral reflex absence. The diagnosis was established through a comprehensive minimum database, neurological examination, and magnetic resonance imaging, which revealed no significant abnormalities. Notably, all cats gradually improved within 14 weeks, with vestibular signs resolving first. However, two cats experienced recurrence after initial recovery, with spontaneously resolved clinical signs without intervention.

Conclusion:
Concurrent IVS and IFP in cats are self-limiting, benign conditions with a favorable prognosis. Breed predisposition can be suspected in China.

Key words: Facial nerve paralysis; Feline; Idiopathic vestibular syndrome; MRI; Neurology.