Cerebellar hypoplasia (CH) is a condition that cats are born with. It is a congenital condition which occurs due to the balance and co-ordination part of the brain not forming properly prior to birth; hence the term wobbly cat syndrome! In a CH cat their movements may be uncoordinated, jerky, wobbly, tippy or very limited.
CH is usually caused by the Mumma cat having bacterial or viral infections such as feline panleukopenia, caused by feline parvovirus. Less commonly, it can also be caused by the Mumma being poisoned, injured or malnourished. This results in the Cerebellum in the unborn kitten or kittens being underdeveloped. The Cerebellum is the part of the brain that is responsible for motor function, balance and coordination.
CH is a condition that has no cure but equally it should not get worse! There are three different severities of CH; mild, moderate and severe! Tippers would probably be categorized as a mild to moderate! CH are completely unaware that they have this condition; they adapt to their limitations and are able to lead a happy life. CH cats are usually extremely affectionate and loving.
I would be categorized as a mild to moderate case of CH. As you can probably gather from my name!! My parents have had to make a few adaptations for me, such as, a three sided litter box. I am crated at night to keep me safe. I have now learnt to climb the stairs but I cannot jump; if i get too high on my rear legs my body goes into spasm and I topple over backwards! All in all, I am a happy special needs kitty hoping to inspire others to bring a CH kitty into their home.