Also called “Rolling Skin Disease”

The word “hyperesthesia” basically means an increase in sensitivity. If you have a cat with this syndrome you will probably be well aware of what is meant by this. These cats act as though they have pain from simply being petted, especially along their lower back. Their skin seems to twitch as if they are irritated simply by the air currents passing over them. Some cats will attack their tails or even go running through the house screaming. Cats with milder disease may simply lick or bite their paws in response to petting. Often, itchy skin conditions, such as flea bite allergy, make the syndrome more prominent. Some cats actually go into seizures when petted in certain ways.

Hyperesthesia syndrome is felt to be a type of compulsive disorder, usually initiated when the cat is in conflict. The cat wants to perform one behavior but it is prevented from doing so and ultimately performs another behavior in frustration. After a while, this second behavior, frequently grooming, is performed compulsively.

The usual patient is relatively young, age 1-5 years and is most commonly an oriental breed such as a Burmese, Siamese, Abyssinian, or Persian.

Burmese Siamese Abyssinian Persian

TREATMENT

Any conditions leading to itching should be addressed. Fleas should be removed and possibly a corticosteroid should be used for itch symptoms.

If seizures are part of the problem and controlling the itch does not control the seizures then medication for seizures should be used (diazepam or phenobarbital are most common feline choices).

Because of the problem having its roots in conflict, the cat’s environment needs to be stabilized with scheduled feedings, plenty of toys, and minimized competition for refuge and the litter box with other cats.

Medications can be used to address the compulsive behavior. Therapy is continued for at least 4-6 months before attempting a dose reduction.

Gabapentin – This medication helps with what is called “neuropathic” pain, that is pain that comes from damaged nerves.

Fluoxetine and Clomipramine – These are psychoactive drugs used to address the compulsion.

Benzodiazepine tranquilizers (such as lorazepam and oxazepam) can also be used to relieve the conflict and stress that led to the syndrome.

There is tremendous variability in its response to treatment. Some cats respond to itch relief alone while others require seizure control plus itch relief and still more require more extensive psychoactive medications. The cat may not end up being completely normal but it is a reasonable goal to expect there ultimately to be no self-mutilation. Inappropriate pain perception should be reduced to the extent that the cat has a good life quality over all.

Page posted: 10/25/09