Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE)

A fibrocartilaginous embolism occurs when a small piece of disc material from between the vertebrae enters a blood vessel supplying the spinal cord and blocks blood flow to a localised section of nerve tissue. This interruption in blood supply can cause sudden loss of function in the limbs, typically without obvious pain at the moment of onset. Owners often describe a dog who was moving normally one moment and then developed weakness or paralysis in one or more legs within seconds or minutes, sometimes during play or exercise, sometimes at rest. The pattern of limb involvement depends on where in the spinal cord the blockage has occurred. Cats can also be affected, though the condition is diagnosed less commonly. This page explores what signs may be observed, what is understood about the underlying process, how the condition is investigated and differentiated from other causes of sudden limb weakness, and what approaches exist for supporting recovery in the days and weeks that follow.