Cats exhibit multidirectional movement and have distinct muscle groups. These structures help the animal move across all terrain, from hard floors to sand and snow. During walking, the MG and SOL share forces between them. This interaction facilitates coordination, even between different muscles of the same body.
In addition, these muscles share forces with their counterparts in other body parts. Moreover, a cat's gait reflects its musculature, based on a hierarchy of skeletal muscle groups.
The neurologic system in cats consists of two main parts: the central and peripheral nervous systems. They control various bodily functions when both function correctly, including respiration, heartbeat, digestion, secretion, and balance. These two systems are interdependent and operate in harmony. However, some disorders can lead to deteriorated coordination in cats. Thus, it is essential to diagnose such conditions as early as possible.
When domestic cats experience a loss of muscle coordination, it may be for various causes. A ear infection, for instance, can cause balance problems in cats. An injury to the spine, meanwhile, may result in spinal surgery. If the underlying cause is unclear, the veterinarian may want to investigate the case further via a series of tests. If your cat does not have the required amount of mobility, your best bet is to consult a veterinarian to identify the reason behind it. Suffice to say, it can be something minor to even life-threatening infection.