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Treatment

The cause of dysautonomia is unknown. Thus, treatment is symptomatic.

Intravenous (IV) fluids should be given to the cat to prevent dehydration. A feeding tube may help ensure adequate nutrition if megaesophagus is present. If intestinal motility is absent, a feeding tube may be necessary. Artificial tears should be administered if tear production is insufficient. Humidification of the air may help with dry mucous membranes. The bladder should be manually expressed for the cat.

Medications will be given for supporting the organs, and for encouraging bladder contraction and improving intestinal motility. If infections or pneumonia are suspected, antibiotics will be prescribed.

Living and Management

Prognosis for cats with dysautonomia is guarded. Most cats that are afflicted with this disease will not survive, as many die of aspiration pneumonia or need to be euthanized due to poor quality of life. Animals that do survive can take more than a year to fully recover and often have some degree of permanent autonomic dysfunction, which may require that they be given constant care.