Distal neuropathy

While most cases of distal neuropathy have been seen in domestic short hair cats (without a sex predilection) Bengal cats appear to be predisposed (~9% of cats affected). In addition, while the average age at presentation of the mixed breed cats was 6 years for cases of axonal degeneration or axonal degeneration and demyelination, and 4 years for cats with demyelination or depletion of intramuscular nerve branches, the average age at presentation in Bengal cats was ~1 year. In all cases weakness was the primary presenting clinical complaint. Lower motor neuron signs were present in ~89%, upper motor neuron signs in 1.5% and a normal neurological examination in 12% of cats. Other presenting signs included stridor with suspected laryngeal paralysis, megacolon (with constipation) and chronic non-healing wounds. Routine laboratory work was unremarkable, 91% had abnormal EMG findings, 37% had slowed motor nerve conduction velocities (MNCV), 15% had decreased compound muscle action potential amplitudes, and 6% revealed histopathologic evidence of axonal degeneration with a normal MNCV. Of cats with long-term follow-up, 57% improved or had a complete resolution of clinical signs. The average age of cats that recovered or had complete resolution of signs was 3.2 years. Relapse of clinical signs occurred in a few cats. Early age of onset appears to be associated with a higher chance of recovery. Axonal degeneration despite a normal MNCV, in a percentage of cats, indicates the necessity of nerve and muscle biopsies when neuromuscular disease is suspected.

R. Pettigrew, M. Kent, W.L. Berry, G.D. Shelton. Peripheral neuropathy in cats Muscle and Nerve Biopsies in 138 Cats: Diagnosis and Outcome ACVIM 2005

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

See Abyssinian/Somali section. A condition similar to PRA has also been seen in a number of middle-aged Bengal cats, but at present little information is available on this.

Musculoskeletal conditions

Flat chested kitten syndrome – see Burmese section