Compulsive right circling in a cat: Obsessive-compulsive disorder or primary neurological disease

Stefania Uccheddu*, Federica Biggio, Antonella Gallucci
San Marco Veterinary Clinic and Laboratory, Veggiano, Italy
(* corresponding author)

Abstract:
A 10-year-old cat was presented with a 3-months history of recurrent episodes of circling to the right with increasing frequency. Physical and blood examination results were unremarkable. Neurological examination showed right circling and non-measurable menace response; both eyes were absent since 2 months of age. A right forebrain disorder was suspected, possibly caused by vascular, neoplastic or infective/inflammatory disease. An MRI scan excluded brain lesions and revealed an incidental left middle ear infection. A functional lesion in a postictal phase following focal epileptic seizure was considered; however, the right circling behaviour worsened despite phenobarbital treatment. Aggression against owners and co-habiting cats was also reported. Obsessive-compulsive disorder was suspected after excluding other compulsive behaviours through a behavioural evaluation. Fluoxetine (0.5 mg/kg, every 24 hours) reduced the intensity and frequency of the circling behaviour by approximately 50% within 25 days. In cats showing compulsive lateralised circling, behavioural disorders are a key differential diagnosis.

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