‘Head pressing’ could be a sign of severe health disorders in cats and dogs

EVER seen an animal pressing its head up against a wall or other hard surface and wonder why it was doing that?

While this behaviour may appear funny or cute, ‘head pressing’ is actually a sign of ill health, possibly severe neural damage.

Head pressing is one of the early abnormal behavioural signs that indicate ill health in a dog or cat.
Other signs include lethargy, weakness and personality changes.

When an animal head presses, it usually stands near a wall or corner, hanging its head low and not moving.

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The animal need not press its head against a wall to exhibit head pressing, but this often also occurs.

Head pressing is indicative that something is wrong with the animal’s nervous system.

This could indicate a nervous system-specific ailment or be the result of an existing condition that has progressed to neurological involvement.

This behaviour is not normal and will not go away on its own.

Should a pet exhibit head pressing behaviour, urgent veterinary intervention is required.

Head pressing could also be the result of the animal being under the influence of a toxin.

Symptoms in dogs

Pressing the head against stable objects for no obvious reason (ie not scratching an itch)

Exhibiting reduced reflexes

Compulsive pacing,

Often developing sores from excessive pacing in a small area

Seizures

Strong changes in behaviour

Visual problems, such as with identifying objects or obstacles

Symptoms in cats

Pacing

Circling

Vision problems

Seizures

Slowed reflexes

Head injuries from pressing head into objects forcefully

Sores on feet from pacing

Source: www.wagwalking.com

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