How long do dogs live with hydrocephalus?
The hydrocephalic dog typically has a very limited life span. Severity differs, but few dogs with this condition live to be over two years of age.
What are common signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus?
Physical signs and symptoms
- Headache.
- Blurred or double vision.
- Abnormal eye movements.
- Abnormal enlargement of a toddler’s head.
- Sleepiness or sluggishness.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Unstable balance.
- Poor coordination.
Is hydrocephalus genetic in dogs?
Congenital hydrocephalus is a genetic defect, and affected puppies, and their littermates and parents, should not be bred. Secondary hydrocephalus in dogs (acquired hydrocephalus) can occur for a number of reasons.
What happens if hydrocephalus is untreated?
Hydrocephalus can permanently damage the brain, causing problems with physical and mental development. If untreated, it is usually fatal. With treatment, many people lead normal lives with few limitations. Treatment usually involves surgery to insert a shunt.
Can dogs recover hydrocephalus?
They may use medication, surgery, or radiation and chemotherapy in cases of tumors. It’s important to see your vet at the first signs of hydrocephalus and allow them to determine the best course of action. When treatment begins early, it can prevent brain damage, and dogs can mostly make a full recovery.
Is a puppy with hydrocephalus in pain?
Some dogs show no symptoms at all of hydrocephalus. Although, if it goes untreated and fluid continues to build in the skull, it’s likely that signs of pain and other symptoms will appear. Sometimes a puppy’s head will appear enlarged because the skull hasn’t fused yet.
What are the symptoms of hydrocephalus in dogs?
Symptoms of Hydrocephalus in Dogs 1 Domed skull 2 Wide set eyes 3 Seizures 4 Erratic or restless behavior 5 Blindness 6 Bumping into things 7 Lack of coordination 8 Compulsive circling 9 Open fontanel or soft spot on the head 10 Standing with legs crossed
When to take your dog to the vet for hydrocephalus?
Should you notice any of these symptoms, have your dog thoroughly examined by your veterinarian. Hydrocephalus occurs when there is an abnormal amount of cerebrospinal fluid within the skull. This build-up of fluid within the skull will put pressure on the brain and cause severe problems for your dog.
Can a dog with hydrocephalus have a domed head?
Your veterinarian will likely be suspicious of congenital hydrocephalus if a puppy of the right age and breed presents with a combination of the common symptoms, especially the easily visible ones like a domed head. Hydrocephalus is more difficult to diagnose in adult dogs, as other conditions can cause similar signs.
What is congenital hydrocephalus in dogs?
Congenital hydrocephalus is a birth defect. The skull will appear domed or apple shaped and a large open fontanel will be located on the top of the skull. It can be difficult to diagnose congenital hydrocephalus when dogs are very young. There are few obvious symptoms, until the puppy is walking and eating on their own.