Expert: Jessica - 6/20/2011

Question
I have a black and white tuxedo cat named Max who this year will be turning 4. Tonight I have noticed when he is laying with me he keeps having these spasms in his neck that cause his neck to jerk sideways. He looks like he is miserable. It keeps happening every few seconds and it also causes him to do this like eye closing thing. Could it be something serious or just a normal spasm that could occur randomly? Cause there is also another cat I take care of that has that when he is resting, but it is in his hind leg. Other than that they both act normally. They even eat and drink just fine.

Answer
Hi Sarah,

This doesn't so sound like something normal to me. It's hard for me to visualize exactly what's going on with your kitty, but it sounds possible that he could be experiencing some seizure activity. Dehydration, some toxins, infections and even organ failure can also cause muscle spasms or head bobbing. Whatever is happening, if it's something you hadn't noticed before, you should certainly bring it to the attention of your vet right away. Also, make note if he seems any sleepier or hungry after these episodes occur, or if he starts to drool, vocalize, urinate or defecate during the episodes. These can be additional signs that he's having seizures.

The leg twitches during sleep with your other cat are a more normal occurrence. These are often associated with dreaming.

Good luck!

Jessica