Neurological conditions can affect pets of any age and may develop suddenly or progress over time. If your pet has experienced seizures, weakness, back pain or changes in coordination, we can help identify the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment. 

We provide comprehensive neurological care for dogs and cats, from advanced diagnostics and imaging through to specialist surgery and ongoing recovery support.  

What is veterinary neurosurgery? 

Veterinary neurosurgery is a specialist field focused on diagnosing and surgically treating diseases affecting the brain, spinal cord , and nervous system. 

A veterinary neurologist has advanced training in neurological disorders and works with specialised imaging, medical management and surgery to treat conditions that cannot be managed through routine veterinary care alone. 

What neurological conditions can we treat at Lort Smith? 

Lort Smith has the capability to treat animals presenting with a variety of neurological conditions. This includes: 

  • Spinal cord injuries 
  • Vertebral fracture and luxations 
  • Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) 
  • Degenerative lumbosacral stenosis 
  • Cervical disc disease 
  • Atlanto-axial instability 

Some neurological conditions can be managed medically, while others may require advanced veterinary neurosurgery. 

When does a pet need neurosurgery? 

Neurosurgery may be recommended for pets with: 

  • Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) or other spinal conditions causing compression of the spinal cord 
  • Traumatic injuries to the brain or spinal cord 
  • Congenital neurological conditions requiring surgical intervention 
  • Neurological conditions that have not responded to medical treatment 

Following a comprehensive neurological assessment and imaging, our specialist will determine whether surgery is the most appropriate treatment.  

Signs your pet may have a neurological condition 

Neurological disease can affect pets in many ways. Some symptoms appear suddenly, while others gradually progress over time. 

If you notice changes in your pet’s movement, behaviour, coordination or comfort, your veterinarian can help determine whether a neurological condition may be contributing to these signs. 

Signs of spinal cord disease in pets 

Spinal conditions commonly cause: 

  • Neck pain 
  • Back pain 
  • Reluctance to jump 
  • Weakness 
  • Dragging the feet 
  • Wobbliness 
  • Difficulty walking 
  • Paralysis 
  • Loss of bladder control 

Many dogs with spinal disease have Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), where a damaged disc compresses the spinal cord. 

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)  

IVDD is one of the more common neurological conditions and a frequent reason for referral for a veterinary neurology. Although IVDD is most common in dogs, it can occasionally occur in cats, too. 

What is IVDD? 

Between each vertebra sits an intervertebral disc that acts as a cushion. When a disc ruptures or herniates, it can press against the spinal cord, causing pain and neurological dysfunction. 

Symptoms may include: 

  • Severe back pain 
  • Reluctance to move 
  • Weakness 
  • Dragging the hind legs 
  • Loss of coordination 
  • Paralysis 

When does IVDD require surgery? 

Some pets improve with medical management and strict rest. However, surgery may be recommended when: 

  • Your dog or cat cannot walk 
  • Neurological signs are worsening 
  • Pain cannot be controlled 
  • Imaging confirms significant spinal cord compression 

Prompt surgery often offers the best chance of recovery, but every pet is different. Following a thorough assessment, we’ll discuss whether surgery is the most appropriate option and support you through each stage of your pet’s treatment and recovery. 

Diagnosing neurological conditions 

Accurate diagnosis is an important first step in understanding your pet’s condition and determining the most appropriate treatment. Our specialist uses advanced diagnostic techniques to investigate the underlying cause of neurological disease. 

Advanced imaging for neurological disorders 

Depending on your pet’s condition, diagnostics may include: 

  • CT 
  • Cerebrospinal fluid analysis 
  • Neurological examination 
  • Blood tests 

Advanced imaging allows our specialists to identify spinal disease, brain tumours and many other neurological disorders. 

From diagnosis to treatment planning 

Once your pet has been assessed and a diagnosis established, our team will develop an individual treatment plan. This may involve: 

  • Medication 
  • Monitoring 
  • Rehabilitation 
  • Neurosurgery 
  • Shared care with your regular veterinarian 

We’ll take the time to explain the findings and treatment options, so you understand what they mean for your pet and what to expect next. 

Accessing specialist neurological care 

We understand that referring a patient for specialist care is an important decision. Our goal is to make the process as straightforward as possible while providing your patients and their families with expert, compassionate care. 

Whether a patient needs further investigation, medical management or neurosurgery, our team can help determine the most appropriate next step. If you would like to refer your patient for neurological care, please visit our referrals page. 

FAQs

Yes. Some pets with IVDD can be successfully managed with rest, medication and close monitoring. Surgery may be recommended when neurological signs are severe or worsening, pain cannot be controlled, or there is significant compression of the spinal cord. 

A dog that suddenly becomes paralysed should be assessed by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Paralysis can have several causes, some of which require urgent treatment. Your veterinarian can assess your dog and determine whether an emergency or specialist referral is needed. 

Yes, although IVDD is less common in cats than in dogs. Cats can develop disc problems that cause back pain, weakness or difficulty walking. If your cat develops these symptoms, a veterinary assessment can help determine the underlying cause.