LM206 - Paws, Claws, and Balance Laws: Animal Vestibular Disorders Explained

Abstract: Vestibular disorders in animals may present with head tilt, ataxia, nystagmus, and other signs that can mimic central or peripheral pathology. This session explores comparative vestibular anatomy across species, emphasizing variations that influence clinical presentation. Common etiologies include congenital syndromes, otitis media/interna, infections and idiopathic syndromes. Epidemiologic data and breed predispositions will be highlighted alongside diagnostic approaches including neurologic exam, imaging, and laboratory evaluation. Case studies from companion animals and exotic species illustrate real-world patterns. Participants will gain insight into differential diagnosis, treatment strategies, and prognosis to improve recognition and management of vestibular disorders

Summary: Vestibular disorders are well recognized in human medicine, yet their presence in animals is less widely understood, despite significant clinical and research relevance. This session offers a novel and engaging exploration of vestibular disorders across species, bringing together comparative anatomy, diagnostic strategies, and case-based learning. By integrating veterinary and audiology perspectives, the session provides attendees with an innovative lens to understand balance disorders beyond the human system and to consider their translational implications.
The presentation begins with an overview of vestibular anatomy and physiology in animals, emphasizing comparative differences that influence function. For example, semicircular canal size and shape vary across species and are directly tied to agility, movement, and sensitivity to rotation. Understanding these differences provides a foundation for appreciating how vestibular disorders manifest in diverse animals, from household pets such as dogs and cats to exotic species like tigers and marine mammals.
A central focus will be on pathologies and their clinical presentation. Congenital syndromes, idiopathic vestibular disorders, infections such as otitis media/interna and listeriosis, toxicities, trauma, and central etiologies like stroke will be discussed. Epidemiologic data, including breed predispositions and age-related onset, will be presented to highlight patterns observed in clinical practice. Instruction will incorporate video case studies, allowing participants to see hallmark signs—head tilt, ataxia, nystagmus, strabismus—across species. This applied component ensures strong engagement and enhances recognition of subtle vestibular signs.
Relevance and clinical impact are emphasized through diagnostic and management strategies. Attendees will learn how veterinarians evaluate vestibular disorders using neurologic exam findings, imaging, and laboratory testing. Comparisons to human diagnostic frameworks highlight both shared and unique challenges. Treatment approaches—ranging from infection management to supportive care and prognosis counseling—will be reviewed, with discussion of how owners and clinicians can optimize animal quality of life.
This talk also has several canine case studies which incorporate assessment and treatment.
Concrete takeaways will include:
• Comparative insights into vestibular anatomy across mammals.
• Recognition of hallmark signs of vestibular disorders in animals.
• An evidence-based understanding of causes, diagnostics, and management strategies.
• Case examples that translate theoretical knowledge into practical clinical decision-making.

This session is original in its comparative approach, highlighting vestibular disorders outside of human practice and drawing parallels that broaden professional perspectives. By presenting veterinary case studies alongside scientific evidence, the session fosters innovative thinking about balance disorders, their broader implications, and how cross-species understanding can inform both research and clinical care.

Attendees will leave with an expanded appreciation for vestibular disorders in animals, an understanding of diagnostic and treatment frameworks, and practical case examples that enhance recognition and clinical reasoning. This content is relevant, engaging, and impactful—equipping participants with knowledge that bridges disciplines and advances both scientific and clinical perspectives on vestibular health.

Brief Summary of Clinical Takeaways: The take away is that mammal anatomy is similar in comparison to human and there is overlap in symptomology and treatment between animals and humans

Assumptions: Knowledge assumption is anatomy and physiology of the vestibular system and common test findings for differential diagnosis