Reviewed by Dr. Terry White, DVM
Are you noticing your cat limping? In general, limping in cats is not normal and is typically a sign of pain, injury, or an underlying health issue. Cats tend to hide their pain, so any visible limp is usually an indication that something is wrong.
You might be thinking, "Why is my cat limping?" "Should I take them to the vet right away?" These questions flood your mind, and not knowing how to help can be overwhelming.
In this guide, we'll explore when it's a danger sign, the causes of why your cat is limping.
When to Act
If your cat’s limp lasts more than 24 hours or if they show any signs of distress, it’s time to call your vet. While it might be tempting to wait and see if the limp resolves itself, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Injuries, infections, or even arthritis could be the cause, and the sooner they get treatment, the better.
Understanding Why Cats Limp
Let’s dive into the common reasons for cat limping and what you can do to help. Whether your cat is limping from a back leg or front leg, the causes can vary but many are treatable with proper care.
1. Soft Tissue Injuries (Sprains and Strains)
One of the most common reasons for a limp, especially if it happens suddenly, is a soft tissue injury like a sprain or strain. Cats are active animals, and a misjudged jump or playful run could result in a minor injury. If your cat limps occasionally or refuses to jump as they used to, it could be due to a muscle or ligament strain.
Solution: If the limp came on suddenly and your cat is otherwise behaving normally (eating, drinking, using the litter box), you can give it a day or two. Keep them calm and try to limit their jumping or running. If the limp persists, it's time for a vet visit.
2. Arthritis in Older Cats
As cats age, they are more prone to developing arthritis, particularly in their back legs. You might notice your older cat limping or having trouble getting up after resting. Cats with arthritis may limp intermittently, and while it can be painful, it's manageable with proper treatment.
Solution: Your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or joint supplements to ease the pain. In more severe cases, treatments like acupuncture or physical therapy may be recommended.
3. Infections from Bite Wounds
If your cat spends time outdoors, an infected bite wound is a common cause of limping. When cats fight, especially territorial cats, bites can leave behind deep puncture wounds that may become infected. These wounds are often hard to see but cause swelling, pain, and limping, especially if the bite is on the leg.
Solution: A veterinary visit is required if you suspect an infection. Antibiotics and possibly draining of the wound will likely be needed. It’s best not to wait, as infections can spread and worsen quickly.
4. Broken Bones or Fractures
If your cat has had a bad fall or been in an accident, fractures or broken bones are a possible cause of their limp. This is especially common if they are refusing to put any weight on the leg or if the leg looks swollen or misshapen.
Solution: Broken bones require immediate veterinary attention. X-rays will help determine the extent of the injury, and depending on the severity, your vet may need to apply a cast or perform surgery.
5. Nail or Paw Issues
Sometimes the cause of your cat limping is as simple as a nail issue. Torn or ingrown nails, foreign objects like a thorn in the paw, or even burns from walking on hot surfaces can cause limping. Cats may lick their paws excessively if they’re in pain, or they may completely avoid putting weight on the affected foot.
Solution: Examine your cat’s paws carefully for any signs of trauma, swelling, or foreign objects. If you find something, like an overgrown nail or debris, carefully remove it or contact your vet if you’re unsure. Keeping their nails trimmed can help avoid these problems in the future.
When to See a Vet
While some limping may resolve with rest, there are certain signs that indicate you should visit the vet sooner rather than later. These include:
Persistent limping for more than 24 hours
Visible swelling or heat in the leg
Obvious signs of pain, such as crying or aggression when touched
Inability to walk or dragging the leg
Wounds, bleeding, or visible injuries
If your cat is also showing other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it's even more important to seek veterinary care. These symptoms could indicate a more severe underlying condition, such as a neurological issue or systemic infection.
Home Care Tips for a Limping Cat
If your vet has determined that your cat’s limp is due to a minor issue like a sprain or soft tissue injury, there are a few things you can do to help your cat recover at home:
1. Limit Their Activity
Cats are naturally curious and active creatures, which makes it difficult to keep them still, but restricting their movement is crucial for healing. You need to:
Keep your cat indoors: Prevent your cat from jumping or running by keeping them inside. Outdoor environments can increase the risk of further injury.
Confine them if necessary: If your cat is very active, consider confining them to a small room or using a large dog crate. This limits their movement, reducing strain on the injured limb.
Block off high surfaces: Use pet gates or barriers to block access to beds, counters, or other places your cat might jump from. If possible, put their litter box, food, and water on the same floor to reduce their need to jump or climb.
2. Make Their Environment Comfortable
Providing comfort will help your cat rest and heal. Here’s how you can make your home more recovery-friendly:
Provide soft bedding: Place soft, cozy bedding in your cat's resting areas. This will encourage them to rest and minimize movement. If they usually sleep in elevated spaces, move their bedding to the floor to avoid jumping.
Use ramps: If your cat has favorite spots that are hard to access without jumping, consider using ramps or stairs to make it easier for them to reach these areas.
Temperature control: Keeping the area warm can ease stiffness, especially in cats with arthritis. However, avoid direct heating pads, as cats may not move away if they get too hot. Instead, a heated cat bed or a warm blanket can provide gentle warmth.
3. Monitor Your Cat’s Behavior and Symptoms
Keep an eye on how your cat is moving, eating, and behaving overall. This will help you detect whether their condition is improving or worsening.
Observe their movement: If the limp worsens, or if your cat starts refusing to put any weight on the leg, contact your vet again. Occasional improvement followed by regression could indicate a more serious issue, such as a hidden fracture or infection.
Watch for signs of pain: Even though cats are good at hiding pain, you may notice subtle signs, such as reluctance to move, growling when touched, or hiding more than usual. If your cat seems uncomfortable or in pain, a follow-up vet visit may be necessary.
Check for swelling or heat: Run your hand gently over your cat’s leg to check for any heat, swelling, or abnormalities that could indicate an infection or other injury. Be cautious, though—handling a painful area could cause your cat to react aggressively.
Are You Worried about Your Cat Limping?
We can help! EverPal's Medical Director, Dr. Terry White, brings 40 years of experience and is ready to meet your fur baby same-day for any concerns about your cat's health. Each visit is twice as long as your typical in-office visit, allowing our veterinarian to understand your cat's unique needs and provide thorough guidance on the best treatment plan. In-person diagnostics available.
Better vet care with most comfort for your fur baby. Schedule your online vet visit today.
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