Glossary

Vestibular disease

A disturbance of the balance system that causes a head tilt, stumbling, rolling and flicking eye movements.

Also called: vestibular syndrome, head tilt in cats, idiopathic vestibular disease, balance disorder

The vestibular system helps an animal know where its head and body are in space. It includes parts of the inner ear and the brain. When it is disturbed, a cat can look dizzy: the head tilts to one side, the cat staggers, falls, circles or rolls, and the eyes flick rapidly from side to side, a movement called nystagmus. Many cats also vomit, drool or refuse to eat because of nausea. Signs can start suddenly and look alarming.

Causes include inner ear infection, polyps in the ear or throat, injury, toxins, certain medicines, tumors and brain disease. In some cats, mostly older ones, no cause is found, and the condition is called idiopathic. These cats often begin to improve within a few days and may recover over weeks, though a slight head tilt can stay.

Because serious causes can look the same, every cat with these signs should be seen by a vet soon. The exam includes the ears and nervous system, and may extend to blood tests, blood pressure measurement and imaging. Keep the cat in a safe, low area away from stairs and water, with food and a litter box close by. Do not put anything in the ears. Ask your vet about nausea relief, hydration and what signs of worsening to watch for.

Last reviewed November 7, 2026

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Related terms

Seizures Sudden bursts of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that can cause collapse, twitching, drooling and loss of awareness. Blood pressure The force of blood against artery walls; high readings in cats usually come from another disease and can damage the eyes, brain, heart and kidneys. Upper respiratory infection A contagious infection of the nose, throat and eyes that causes sneezing, discharge and a poor appetite, common in kittens and shelter cats. Anesthesia The medically controlled loss of consciousness and pain sensation that lets a vet perform surgery, dental work or imaging safely. Wellness exam A routine vet visit for a healthy-looking cat to check its body, update vaccines and parasite control, and catch problems early.

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