Graceful, coordinated movement is a quintessential feline trait. So, what should we make of cats that are completely off-kilter?
Kittens born with a condition called cerebellar hypoplasia have an underdeveloped balance center. They can’t coordinate their actions. Instead, they display exaggerated, unsteady movements, prompting some to call this condition “wobbly cat syndrome.”
Their motor abnormalities don’t worsen over time, but there isn’t a cure, either. Fortunately, wobbly cats often learn to compensate. So, although they may look odd to us, they can live happy, healthy lives.
Because they’re more vulnerable than normal cats, these cats should be kept inside and monitored so they don’t get hurt. Beyond that, given the patience and attention they deserve, wobbly cats can make endearing companions.