Ataxia, CNS atrophy with cerebellar ataxia (Belgian Malinois)(CaCa)
Cerebellar Ataxia and CNS Atrophy · Zerebelläre Ataxie und ZNS-Atrophie · CNS Atrophy with Cerebellar Ataxia in Belgian Malinois · Kleinhirnatrophie Malinois · Cerebellar Ataxia with CNS Atrophy · CNS Atrophy with Cerebellar Ataxia · Zerebelläre Ataxie mit ZNS-Atrophie · Malinois Cerebellar Ataxia
What it is
This is a severe, inherited neurological disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain's coordination center, known as the cerebellum. As these cells degenerate, the dog loses the ability to control and coordinate its voluntary movements. It is an autosomal recessive condition, meaning a puppy must inherit the mutated gene from both parents to develop the disease.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear in young puppies between 6 and 12 weeks of age. Owners will notice uncoordinated movement, a wobbly or abnormal gait, and body tremors that rapidly worsen over time.
Treatment
There is no cure for this condition, and medical management is limited to diagnostic confirmation and supportive care, which typically costs between 300 and 1500 EUR. Due to the rapid progression and severe impact on quality of life, humane euthanasia is usually necessary.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.