Cauda Equina Syndrome in Dogs

Also known as degenerative lumbosacral stenosis or lumbosacral disease

What is cauda equina syndrome?

Cauda equina syndrome is caused by pressure on the bundle of nerves at the lower end of the spinal canal. These nerves supply the hind legs, tail, bladder, bowel and surrounding areas.

The condition commonly develops where the final lumbar vertebra meets the sacrum, known as the L7–S1 or lumbosacral joint. Pressure on the nerve roots can cause pain, weakness and, in severe cases, problems controlling the bladder or bowel.

The name cauda equina means “horse’s tail”, describing the appearance of this group of nerves.

What causes it?

Several conditions can narrow the spinal canal or the openings through which the nerves pass. Possible causes include:

• Degeneration or protrusion of the lumbosacral disc
• Arthritic changes and abnormal bone growth
• Thickening of the supporting ligaments
• Instability of the lumbosacral joint
• Infection of the disc or surrounding vertebrae
• Trauma to the lower spine
• Less commonly, a tumour or other growth

Which dogs are affected?

The condition is seen most often in middle-aged and older, large-breed dogs. German Shepherd Dogs are particularly predisposed, although any breed can be affected.

Active and working dogs may show signs earlier because running, jumping and climbing place additional strain on the lumbosacral joint.

Possible symptoms

The symptoms vary according to the cause and the amount of pressure on the nerves. They may include:

• Pain or sensitivity over the lower back
• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs or get into a car
• Difficulty rising or lying down
• Hind-leg lameness, weakness or an unsteady gait
• Dragging or scuffing the rear paws
• A lowered or weak tail
• Pain when the tail is lifted
• Loss of muscle from the hindquarters
• Difficulty or pain when passing faeces
• Chewing or licking the tail, feet or hindquarters
• Urinary or faecal incontinence in severe cases

Diagnosis

Your vet will examine the dog’s back, hind legs, reflexes, tail movement and response to movement of the lumbosacral joint.

X-rays may reveal arthritis, infection or changes to the vertebrae, but they cannot reliably show whether the nerve roots are being compressed. MRI is usually the most useful test for examining the nerves and surrounding soft tissues. CT scans may also provide valuable information.

Blood tests, urine tests or additional investigations may be recommended if infection or another underlying illness is suspected.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause, severity and duration of the symptoms.

Surgical procedures may include removing part of the bone to relieve pressure on the nerves, widening the nerve openings or stabilising the joint. The precise procedure will depend on the imaging results and the individual dog.

If infection is responsible, appropriate antimicrobial treatment may be required. Physiotherapy, hydrotherapy or acupuncture may sometimes be suggested as part of a veterinary treatment plan, although the evidence for individual complementary treatments varies.

Outlook

The outlook depends on the underlying cause and how severely the nerves have been affected. Many dogs with pain alone improve with appropriate treatment.

Recovery is less predictable when there is severe weakness, long-standing nerve damage, or loss of bladder and bowel control. Early veterinary assessment gives the best opportunity to identify the cause and begin suitable treatment.

This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified veterinary surgeon.

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