Nervous

The neurological system represents one of the communication mechanisms in the cat’s body. The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and branching nerves that conduct signals throughout the entire body.

Anatomically, the nervous system consists of two main areas: central, the brain and spinal cord; and peripheral, the nerves coming from the brain and spinal cord to innervate areas of the body. The control of the nervous system falls into two separate categories: the somatic and autonomic nervous systems. The somatic nervous system relays voluntary (conscious) signals to activate skeletal muscle movement to allow your pet to navigate its surroundings. In contrast, the autonomic nervous system relays involuntary (unconscious) signals to regions of the body to control your pet’s internal organs, such as the lungs, heart, and intestinal tract.

Indications that your pet may have a neurologic problem include seizures, weakness, inability to rise/walk, incontinence, sudden blindness, behavior changes, and pain.

Common conditions that affect the nervous system in cats include:

  • Congenital abnormalities, such as cerebellar hypoplasia
  • Infections, such as Feline Leukemia Virus, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, Feline Infectious Peritonitis, and Toxoplasmosis
  • Hypertension
  • Tumors

Have an Emergency?

If you are to the south of Old Hickory Boulevard, go to:
Blue Pearl Emergency
3020 Mallory Lane, Brentwood, TN 37027
(615) 333-1212 Ext. 1

Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG)
* best choice for exotic pets*
2035 Mallory Ln, Franklin, TN 37067
629-235-4420

If you are to the north of Old Hickory Boulevard, go to:
Nashville Veterinary Services Emergency
2971 Sidco Drive, Nashville, TN 37204
(615) 386-0107



Location Hours
Monday7:00am – 5:30pm
Tuesday7:00am – 5:30pm
Wednesday7:00am – 5:30pm
Thursday7:00am – 5:30pm
Friday7:00am – 5:30pm
Saturday7:00am – 12:00pm
SundayClosed