Hi! I have no idea if I sent this already (memory issues), so sorry if I have; tried searching on your blog and couldn't find it.
I have a character with paraplegia, about T8 level. It’s either complete or ASIA B, I haven’t decided. Either way, no motor control, and they have spasticity and spasms. They also have a tail (specifically cat, if that matters). It obviously couldn’t be controlled voluntarily, but could it still react on reflex? Like wagging, raising when happen, that sort of thing?
Hi!
For complete paralysis, it is often the case that reflex arcs below the injury level will also be damaged. Incomplete spinal cord injuries can allow reflex arcs to remain intact, even when the reflex arc is at a lower level than the injury.
If they also have incontinence, vets recommend amputating a tail to prevent the tail getting dirty and infected, and to avoid further nerve damage in the area.
The only major reflex arc in cat tails is twitching when touched. Wagging and raising are voluntary motions.
Mod Rock