Medications
Depending on the underlying cause and severity of water on the brain syndrome in your cat, your vet may decide the most appropriate line of treatment will be medications. Certain medications such as acetazolamide or methazolamide, decrease the production of CSF in the brain, which may allow proper drainage despite any obstruction or may reduce the amount of fluid in the case of the compensatory version of the condition. Diuretics may help reduce the amount of fluid in the brain, and in some cases steroidal drugs such as prednisone have been known to help.
It is likely that your vet will prescribe some combinations of these drugs. If the underlying cause of your cat’s condition is permanent, then your cat will need regular medication throughout the course of its life in order to alleviate their neurological and physical symptoms. In the case of an injury or hemorrhage, reduction of fluid can encourage healing of area and medication may be slowly weaned off under the strict supervision of your veterinarian.
Surgery
In severe cases, your veterinarian may prescribe a shunt to be placed in your cat’s head which will allow the excess fluid to drain. The purpose of a shunt is to alleviate the pressure caused by the fluid, which will then alleviate neurological symptoms in your cat.
Surgery is not without complications. There is a possibility of infection, blockage or movement of the shunt. Regular visits to your veterinarian and compliance with all medication protocols, will help minimize the risks of these complications.
Palliative Care
It’s an unfortunate reality that in some severe cases of water on the brain in cats, the best care will be that which alleviates pain and discomfort for your cat. Your veterinarian will be able to discuss the chances of recovery through either medication or surgery and can assist you with quality of life concerns to determine whether there is an effective treatment option available.