Feline Audiogenic Reflex Seizures (FARS): Understanding ‘Tom and Jerry Syndrome’ in Cats
Unpredictable noises can set off reflex seizures, making a stress-free home vital.
Feline Audiogenic Reflex Seizures (FARS): An Overview
Feline Audiogenic Reflex Seizures (FARS) is a neurological condition in cats where seizures are triggered specifically by certain sounds, typically high-frequency or abrupt noises. The term ‘reflex’ points to seizures triggered by an external stimulus (sound), while ‘audiogenic’ means that sound is the culprit. FARS is also affectionately dubbed ‘Tom and Jerry syndrome’ after the cartoon character Tom’s exaggerated reflexes.
What Are Audiogenic Reflex Seizures?
Reflex seizures are epileptic events set off by distinct stimuli, and in the case of FARS, this stimulus is an environmental sound. Cats affected by FARS experience sudden, involuntary movements in response to noises that might seem trivial but provoke dramatic reactions due to their nervous system’s hyperreactivity.
Types of Seizures in FARS
- Generalised tonic-clonic seizures: The classic seizure type, involving collapse, vigorous leg paddling, chomping, foaming at the mouth, and sometimes, loss of bladder or bowel control.
- Myoclonic seizures: Brief, involuntary muscle jerks or spasms, recorded in nearly 95% of studied FARS cats. These typically last less than a second, and affected cats often remain conscious throughout.
- Absence seizures: Sometimes called ‘petit mal’ seizures, these are marked by a loss of awareness, a blank stare, or non-responsiveness for a few seconds.
Signs and Symptoms
| Seizure Type | Characteristic Signs |
|---|---|
| Generalised tonic-clonic | Collapse, leg paddling, chewing, foaming at mouth, loss of bladder/bowel control |
| Myoclonic | Sudden, brief muscle jerks or spasms, consciousness usually retained |
| Absence | Brief lapse of awareness, vacant staring, unresponsiveness |
Additional symptoms observed in FARS-affected cats include:
- Hearing loss or deafness
- Decreased cognition
- Unexplained weight loss
- Incoordination or weakness
- Difficulty jumping
Which Cats Are at Risk?
- Age factor: FARS predominantly affects senior cats. Symptoms commonly emerge in cats older than 10, with a median onset around age 15.
- Breed predisposition: While any breed can be affected, about one third of cases occur in Birman cats, particularly blue and seal points.
- Most cats in reported studies had concurrent health conditions such as heart or kidney disease. However, these are frequent in older cats generally, suggesting noise-induced seizures are not caused by these illnesses but may co-exist.
What Sounds Trigger FARS Seizures?
The defining feature of FARS is a seizure in response to specific auditory stimuli. Common sound triggers include:
- Crinkling tin foil, plastic or paper bags
- Dropping a metal spoon into a ceramic bowl
- Chinking or tapping of glass
- Tapping on a computer keyboard
- Clicking on a computer mouse
- Computer printers
- Clinking of keys or coins
- Hammering nails
- Clacking together of wooden blocks
- Splitting firewood
- Clicking tongue
- Texting notification sound
- Mobile phone ring
- Alarms
- Clicking of gas burner while igniting
- Running water
- Dog scratching
- Jingling metal dog tags
- Walking on wooden floors with bare feet or squeaky shoes
- Children’s screams or laughter
Notably, the most common sounds provoking seizures are tin foil crinkling, dropping a metal spoon into a bowl, and tapping or chinking glass.
Why Do Sharp Sounds Cause Seizures?
More than half of FARS-affected cats have some form of hearing impairment. As cats lose their hearing, low tones fade first, leaving high-pitched noises more noticeable—and startling. The absence of background noise amplifies the effect, making abrupt sounds appear much more intense to the cat. FARS appears to be a reflex epilepsy, triggered specifically by these surprising auditory stimuli.
Causes and Risk Factors
Researchers continue to investigate the exact origins of FARS. Several likely contributors have been identified:
- Genetics: Certain breeds, such as Birmans, and particular cats, may have a genetic susceptibility.
- Neurodegenerative changes: FARS is suspected to be a neurodegenerative disorder common in geriatric cats, with possible brain changes or lesions facilitating hyperexcitability.
- Environmental triggers: Repetitive or unpredictable sounds in the cat’s environment can set off seizures, especially if the cat’s nervous system is already primed to react due to age, genetics, or neurological changes.
Diagnosis of FARS
Diagnosing FARS can be challenging, as there is no specific diagnostic test. Veterinarians rely on:
- Detailed medical history: Owners should report any episodes of jerking or seizures in relation to specific sounds.
- Observation and video evidence: Recording the cat’s response to triggers can help pinpoint the pattern and rule out other seizure causes.
- Clinical examination: Assessment of overall health, hearing, and neurological status.
Because many cats with FARS are elderly and may have accompanying health issues (such as heart or kidney disease), caution is necessary before any procedures involving sedation or anesthesia.
How to Manage and Treat FARS
While FARS is typically progressive, with symptoms worsening over time, cat owners and veterinarians can help manage the condition:
- Sound avoidance: Reduce or eliminate exposure to known triggers. Use soft materials, avoid crinkling tin foil, and keep household noise to a minimum.
- Veterinary medications: Oral levetiracetam is a commonly prescribed anti-seizure medication used to help reduce episode frequency and severity.
- Environmental modification: Create a safe, quiet space for affected cats, limiting stress and exposure to unpredictable or loud sounds.
- Supportive care: Address hearing loss, cognitive decline, or other age-related health concerns.
In some cases, anti-seizure medications can help control FARS, though management often focuses on environmental adjustments and owner awareness.
Prognosis and Lifespan
FARS is typically a slowly progressive disease, with a median duration of 2–3 years. Though it negatively affects the quality of life, many cats continue to live comfortably with proper management. The overall prognosis is poor due to the progressive nature of the neurodegeneration, but early action and support can make a significant difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I do if my cat shows signs of FARS?
A: Record the symptoms, note any sound triggers, and consult your veterinarian with this information. Video documentation can be extremely helpful in diagnosis.
Q: Are certain cats more likely to get FARS?
A: FARS most commonly affects cats over 10 years of age, with Birmans appearing at higher risk. However, any breed or mixed breed can be affected.
Q: Can FARS be cured?
A: There is no cure. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, reducing triggers, and supporting the cat’s overall health and comfort.
Q: Is my cat in pain during a seizure?
A: Seizures themselves are generally not painful, but they can be distressing. Providing a safe environment and minimizing triggers is essential.
Q: Are other pets at risk from the same sounds?
A: FARS is unique to cats and most prevalent in seniors; however, loud sudden sounds can startle any pet, so minimizing environmental stress benefits all animals.
How Owners Can Help
- Monitor and record sound-triggered episodes.
- Modify the home environment to minimize unpredictable noises.
- Consult veterinary professionals regularly for health monitoring and medication adjustments.
- Provide reassurance and calm when seizures occur; do not try to restrain a seizing cat.
Summary Table: Key Facts About FARS
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical Age | 10+ years (Median 15 years) |
| Most Affected Breed | Birman (Blue and Seal Points) |
| Main Triggers | High-frequency and abrupt noises, especially household sounds |
| Common Symptoms | Myoclonic seizures, tonic-clonic seizures, absence seizures, hearing loss |
| Main Treatments | Sound avoidance and anti-seizure medications (Levetiracetam) |
| Prognosis | Progressive over 2–3 years; management improves quality of life |
Additional Resources & Support
- Veterinary neurologists can assist in diagnosing and planning treatment for cats with suspected FARS.
- Cat care organizations provide education for owners, including guides and support groups for families of cats with epilepsy or neurological conditions.
Conclusion
Feline Audiogenic Reflex Seizures is an important diagnosis for veterinarians and cat owners to recognize, particularly in aging cats. Understanding the condition, its triggers, and management strategies allows owners to minimize distress, optimize treatment, and enhance the well-being of affected cats. Staying informed and working closely with veterinary specialists is key to providing the best care for cats experiencing FARS.
References
- https://www.movementvets.co.uk/services/neurology/brain-disease/epilepsy/audiogenic-seizures-in-cats/
- https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/neurological/feline-audiogenic-reflex-seizures-fars
- https://www.petcarerx.com/article/feline-audiogenic-reflex-seizures/6804
- https://www.vetlexicon.com/felis/neurology/articles/feline-audiogenic-reflex-seizures/
- https://icatcare.org/articles/feline-audiogenic-reflex-seizures-fars
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