Vascular Accidents (AKA Strokes)

Introduction to Strokes in Veterinary Medicine

A stroke, or vascular accident/event, refers to a sudden disruption in blood flow to a portion of the brain, leading to impaired function. Strokes are classified into two types: infarcted strokes which are caused by a clot that obstructs blood flow, and hemorrhagic strokes that are characterized by bleeding in or around the brain. 

Symptoms of a Stroke in pets

Strokes typically present with sudden-onset symptoms that stabilize and do not worsen after the first day. If you notice new symptoms developing or existing symptoms worsening, it is crucial to contact your neurology team immediately. Common symptoms of a stroke in pets include:

  • Seizures

  • Changes in personality

  • Loss of previously acquired training

  • Difficulty staying awake

  • Trouble sleeping

  • Challenges with walking

  • Dizziness or vertigo

  • Circling behavior

  • Sudden onset of blindness

  • Problems with eating, drinking, or swallowing


An MRI showing multiple strokes in a dog's brain

The black dots seen in this MRI are multiple strokes.

Conditions That May Cause Strokes in Pets

In approximately half of the cases where dogs and cats experience a stroke, an underlying cause is identified. Diagnosing and treating these underlying conditions is crucial to prevent recurrent strokes. Conditions commonly associated with strokes include:

  • High blood pressure

  • Kidney disease

  • Hyperadrenocorticism (commonly known as Cushing's Disease)

  • Hypothyroidism

  • Protein-losing kidney or intestinal diseases

  • Cancer, regardless of its location in the body

  • Heart disease


Will my pet be okay? Is this treatable?

Many pets who experience a stroke can achieve a good recovery, though this process may take several weeks. However, pets that suffer multiple strokes may face more challenges in recovering, and in some cases, may not fully recover.

There are no medications specifically designed to treat strokes in pets. The key to recovery typically involves time and, in some instances, physical therapy.

Diagnosis of Stroke In pets

Diagnosis of a stroke requires an MRI and sometimes other brain testing like a spinal tap or infectious disease.