What is nystagmus?

Nystagmus is defined as a condition characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of the eyes. This condition can manifest as the eyes moving in various patterns, including side to side, up and down, or in circular motions. The key feature of nystagmus is that these movements are involuntary and can occur in response to different stimuli or as a result of certain neurological conditions.

In this context, describing nystagmus as "bouncing eyes in a circular motion" captures one of the possible manifestations of the condition, though nystagmus may not always be circular. It signifies that the movement is not under conscious control and can lead to difficulties with vision or balance. Understanding nystagmus is important for veterinary professionals as it can be indicative of underlying medical issues in animals, especially when assessing neurological function.