Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome: An Examination by Hanie Elfenbein, DVM, Reviewed by Emily Oliver, CVT on 02/28/2025, First Published on 02/01/2022. Share on Facebook, Twitter, or Email. Available for printing too.

Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome (FHS), also known as rolling skin disease or twitchy cat disease, is a condition that primarily affects cats. This syndrome is characterized by episodes of heightened skin sensitivity, abnormal behavioral reactions such as twitching, excessive grooming, and sudden bouts of agitation or aggression.

Signs of FHS in cats may include excessive grooming, skin rippling or rolling, tail chasing, vocalization, salivation, dilated pupils, head bobbing, aggression, and attacks on their own tail or lower back. While these symptoms can be alarming, the prognosis for FHS in cats is generally good, although some cats who suffer from severe cases may self-mutilate, causing infection, or become very aggressive.

Diagnosing FHS can be challenging as there is no single test for the condition. Veterinarians will often rule out other possible causes, such as skin irritation, spinal problems, or other diseases. Radiographs (X-rays) of a cat's spine and tail, blood work and urinalysis, and an MRI (magnetic resonance image) may be used to help determine whether there is a specific cause of FHS episodes.

In treating FHS, behavioural and environmental modification is the first part of treatment, aimed at reducing stress, anxiety, and triggers for the condition. Supplements such as coenzymes, omega-3 fatty acids, and a prescription skin support diet may also help reduce the frequency and severity of FHS episodes.

Anti-anxiety medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or Clomipramine may be used to treat FHS in cats. For mild to moderate cases, Gabapentin, a medication that reduces nerve pain and can also be helpful in reducing seizures, may be used. Cats with severe FHS may require multiple medications, as well as periodic epidural injections with pain medication and steroids.

Researchers are still trying to understand the cause of FHS, with some suggesting it is a behavioural disorder or related to seizure disorders or injury. Certain breeds, such as Abyssinian, Burmese, Persian, and Himalayan cats, are at higher risk for developing FHS, suggesting a heritable genetic component.

While FHS cannot be prevented, reducing a cat's anxiety and stress can help reduce the frequency or severity of episodes. If you suspect your cat may be suffering from FHS, it is important to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.