Genetic Brain Disease in Horses

Cerebella Hypoplasia

Cerebella Hypoplasia is a degenerative disease affecting the cerebellum region of a horse's brain. It is generally associated with purebred Arab horses or those which have Arab blood. Very little is currently known about the disease, although veterinarians do know the disease affects cells in the cerebellum, causing loss of motor function and incoordination in horses.

Symptoms

Symptoms will first appear minor, usually just a slight loss of balance. Things will then become progressively worse and the horse's gait may become higher and more forced; the head may even droop or nod. Other signs to look out for include:

• Jerking
• Tremors/Shakes
• Unnatural gait
• Collapse

Causes

Cerebella hypoplasia is caused by a slow degeneration of cells in the cerebellum region of the brain. The loss of these cells affects the balance and coordination of the horse, and leads to the "attacks."

Diagnosis

The behavior that is associated with the early stages of this condition may be indicative of another condition or disease, so the veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination and perform various other tests to confirm the diagnoses.