Spinal Disorders

Spinal disorders include a wide variety of diseases. You may see different signs which reflect the level of spinal cord disease. Your pet may not be able to use one, two, or all four limbs. The specific tests for spinal abnormalities are CT, CT with myelogram (outlining the spinal cord by injecting contrast material “dye” around it), spinal tap, and MRI. These tests will require general anesthesia to be performed safely and comfortably for your pet. If a spinal compression is identified, spinal surgery is often recommended to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord. As the spinal cord is a very sensitive organ, earlier decompression results in a higher chance for a full functional recovery.