Hydrocephalus or brain swelling as it is termed is a condition in which the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulates in excess inside the skull which puts pressure on the brain tissues, eventually leading to expansion of the head.

1. Hydrocephalus in Pets: Symptoms and Treatment
What Is Hydrocephalus Disease?
Hydrocephalus or brain swelling as it is termed is a condition in which the cerebrospinal fluid
(CSF) accumulates in excess inside the skull which puts pressure on the brain tissues, eventually
leading to expansion of the head. This deposition of extra fluid interferes with the cognitive
functions of the brain which results in detrimental cognitive growth and failure of mental agility.
Hydrocephalus is a serious disease which can lead to demise of the pet if not addressed on time.
Dogs and cats affected with hydrocephalus usually have a protruded kind of appearance in the
head.
Types of Hydrocephalus Diseases
There are usually two categories of hydrocephalus that hit the pets. In most of the cases it is
usually congenital (present from birth) and is known as Primary Hydrocephalus and the other
one is Secondary which is normally acquired over time.

2. Primary Hydrocephalus: This type of hydrocephalus is a birth defect in which the skull seems
protruded, dome-shaped and the pet usually has a steady downward looking gaze due to excess
accumulation of CSF in the brain. Primary hydrocephalus usually occurs in small pets and can be
caused due to an infection during the pregnancy of mother dog, could be hereditary, a reaction of
drugs or probably a result of any trauma and injury during the birth of the pet.
Acquired or Secondary Hydrocephalus: Brain tumor, infection or swelling of the brain can
cause blockage of CSF in the pet’s brain. This leads to excessive deposition of CSF at one place
that hinders cognitive functions and causes dementia, seizures and behavioral issues in dogs
and cats.
What are the Symptoms of Hydrocephalus in Cats and Dogs?
Hydrocephalus can go completely unnoticed in dogs and cats because the symptoms are subtle
and may seem quite normal to pet owners. However, pets, especially the younger and smaller
ones, are quite prone to having hydrocephalus by birth or during their lifespan. Here the
symptoms you can watch out for in your pet:
• Domed appearance of the skull
• Cognitive failure
• Tiredness
• Dullness
• Poor learning ability
• Aggression
• Listlessness
• Lameness
• Hyper excitation
• Stunted body
• Respiratory troubles
• Abnormal gaze
• Abnormal gait
• Coma
• Seizures
• Death
Dogs Breeds That Are Susceptible To Hydrocephalus
Smaller pooches and tiny breeds like – Pugs, Pomeranians, Pekingese, Maltese, Toy poodles,
Yorkshire and Boston terriers, Shih Tzus, Bulldogs and Lhasa Apsos are very prone to getting
Hydrocephalus by birth or acquire it easily over time.

3. How is Hydrocephalus Treated In Cats and Dogs?
After the vet has conducted the CT or MRI scans for fluid build-up in the animal, corticosteroids
are generally prescribed to reduce the inflammation of the pet’s brain. Some anti-seizure
medications may also be included in the treatment. On the other hand, Acquired hydrocephalus
usually requires surgery if the cause of the disease is a tumor. Sadly, in severe cases where the
situation is incurable, the dog or cat is euthanized to save them from unnecessary suffering.
Hydrocephalus is a fatal disease which can immensely deteriorate the pet’s ability to think and
act appropriately. Thus, make sure if at all you see signs of hydrocephalus in your cat or dog, get
them checked immediately. Pets born with hydrocephalus require intense care and thus pet
owners must prepare their minds to deal with the responsibility at hand.