If your cat is just limping, make sure that you monitor her closely, and see if there are any accompanying symptoms before taking her for veterinary care.. If what you really meant was Why is my cat limping? then keep reading. Bear in mind that what follows is meant for purely informational purposes. Consult your vet for the right course of treatment. Outdoor cats, especially unneutered males, are more apt to be involved in territorial fights resulting in bite wound abscess, broken bones, lacerationsandLyme disease. Cuts and minor burns will correct themselves within a few days. When did you first notice the limp? Not only can a cat not tell you what exactly is wrong,a cat in pain maytry to hide that anythings wrong. Does she walk on it but stumbles a bit? Take their limp as a sign they require medical attention. Why Does My Cat Clean Herself After I Pet Her? Hip dysplasia is a common health issue for particular cat breeds such as Persians, and female cats are more prone to it. Signs of distress in a cat look like this: Protect your pet from emergency for less than $1/day Cornstarch also works. For example, injuries to the spine can cause hind leg paralysis. Customer: Today when I got home I noticed she still playful but no running JA: What's the kitten's name? You might be surprised to see diabetes as a reason why your cat is limping but not crying. Lameness and limping are the only visible symptoms of heartworm, occurring when it migrates to the legs. If your cat is in severe pain, do not attempt to examine her. Do Cats Understand Human Smiles And Facial Expressions. Pain in your cat should not be ignored, but investigated to see just how bad it is. Although not immortal, they are agile, can withstand high falls and will defend themselves if necessary. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Should you discover that your cat has its hurt paw, gently examine it to determine the severity. If thats the case, check your cats paw pads and use tweezers from a first aid kit to remove the object carefully. It causes lameness in the legs which leads to a cat limping. A simple burn can be treated with a cool rag. Administration of drugs will also help to prevent secondary infections. If a cat gets a stone trapped between its paw pads, itll find it harder to walk. This makes movement difficult and painful and is known to cause limping in cats. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. As we state above, cats are known for their durability. If a cat has diabetic neuropathy, itll struggle to walk, which is usually a late-stage symptom of diabetes. This comes at no extra cost to you. 1 answer Answered by Destini R. Holloway, DVM Veterinarian I am sorry to hear your cat is having lameness. In most cases though, your cats immune system will fight off the infection, allowing him to recover at home. This means it is not uncommon for a cat to be limping, but not make any sound to alert us to their pain. Cats can also be injured by falling from heights, getting hit by an object or any other sudden movement that causes them to put abnormal strain on a muscle or tendon. Sure, zebras exist, but youre more likely to have a horse; something simple that can be easily tamed. The vet will figure out where your cat has the most pain and check for any irregularities of the bones or joints. This will require removal of any foreign body and disinfecting the wound. If it hasnt stopped, take her to the vet. Just because a bone is not protruding, it doesnt mean that it isnt broken. You should be able to get two fingers in. However, by controlling your cats diabetes, you can prevent the condition from getting any worse. Fibrotic Myopathy is a chronic condition in which fibrous tissue developers in the muscle fibres. My cat is limping but not crying? Given the number of causes of limping in cats, its advisable to book a consultation with a veterinarian. As previously mentioned, cats are great at hiding pain. Possibly, it will be necessary to refer your cat to a specialist vet, e.g. However, it can become worse by not healing properly or even leading to infection. This may be extremely painful for your feline, so if you suspect that an ingrown claw is the cause of your cat limping, take your cat to the vet in order to solve the problem properly. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Beyond verbalizing, signs of pain include: A cat in pain may also purr more. As well as causing heart problems and respiratory infections, it can also make its way to the connective tissues found in the skin of the legs. A soft tissue injury can often be resolved with rest. Then call your veterinarian with your observations. Your vet can also prescribe painkillers to help ease the discomfort as your cat makes its way back to good health. If we manipulate it too much, we might exacerbate the injury. Why is My Cat Limping All of a Sudden? Remove any foreign objects with tweezers to prevent them from embedding more deeply. The injured area may have swelling or bruising. From here, itll live in a cats heart and lungs. Perhaps most obviously, your cat could have a musculoskeletal injury affecting their leg. Antibiotics are given if there are wounds or abscesses. Overgrown claws may curl inward leading to ingrown nails. Any cut on the skin needs to be cleaned, disinfected and bandaged. - Causes and Symptoms, https://www.animalwised.com/caring-for-older-cats-427.html. Deeper infections like an abscess will appear as a warm, soft to mildly firm swelling under the skin. Luxated Patella. 5 Causes. Its important to react in good time, so here are a few things that cats do when in pain so that you can react if you notice some of these behaviors, as theyre main signs of pain: When you should take your cat to the vet depends on the cats condition. The reason for this is because it is not curable. Taking the cats temperature may help to determine if the infection is present. However, skin tumors are also possibly the cause of the swollen lump. Your email address will not be published. You can bandage it by putting gauze on the wound and wrapping it. If the leg is held at an unnatural angle, it's probably worsethatjust a burr. Without the ability to move the back legs, cats cannot eliminate, run, or climb. Many injuries a cat might have can be treated with first aid or even just letting Kitty rest in private until the pain goes away. Happily though, such occurrences are extremely rare this type of roundworm usually dies fairly quickly before reaching adulthood. However, if necessary, ulcers will need to be removed with a scalpel. Soft tissue injuries are sprains and tears to a cats muscles. While there is no cure for arthritis, a vet can prescribe painkillers, but this isnt a long-term solution. Veterinary Radiology and Ultrasound found 12 impacted purebred breeds. Although most limps need veterinary attention, there are a few first aid measures you can perform at home if your cat begins to hobble around. What should you do if your cat is lame? By looking at how they place their leg on the ground, we can get a better idea of where the injury or wound is located. Begin your exam with the toes. If your cat is uncomfortable, pain medication that is safe for a cat will be prescribed. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. If your cats limping because of minor, less serious injuries, such as a sprained muscle, then its most likely that shell heal herself. Contents My cat is limping but not crying My cat has a very swollen leg My cat is limping all of a sudden My cat is only limping sometimes My cat is limping and has fever My cat is limping but not crying To find out why our cat is limping, we need to take a look at the affected limb. I noticed she has a slight limp, every time she walks I can see her left leg giving way ever so slightly. Log in 24/7 to access your pets health care information. If your cat has dilated pupils, drools or vomits and is bleeding from the nose, mouth or gums, she may have made the mistake of toying with a venomous snake or spider. Cats are indeed masters of pain, and your cat is likely masking its discomfort. However, when caught in time, the virus can abate and the cat will return to normal mobility. Numerous treatments are readily available such as insulin injections and oral medications. These arent restricted to verbalizations, such as crying. If it's bleeding a little, silver nitrate or styptic powder could clear it up. Typical treatments include anticonvulsants, anti-inflammatory medications and muscle-spasm relievers. Work your way up the limb, identifying areas of tenderness by applying gentle pressure on each part of the leg. Infections can also cause limping and lameness in cats. In some cases, a broken bone/trauma may damage the surrounding nerves. To find out why our cat is limping, we need to take a look at the affected limb. Why is my cat limping but not in pain? Abscesses are a common cause of feline bacterial infections that result in lameness. This is a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels, and the imbalance typically leads to symptoms such as: However, in rare cases, late-stage diabetes can cause limping. Other signs that your cat has broken a bone include: Your vet will be able to confirm whether or not your cat has broken a bone by taking an x-ray. How to treat paw pad injuries depends on the exact issue at hand. Plus, they can prescribe pain medication for severe and debilitating cases. In felines, it often occurs when the ball-shaped head of the femur does not fit snugly into the socket on the pelvis. Some cats become accustomed to pain and no longer react. If its very deep, you may need a vets help. Human medications, even topical ones, may do more harm than good. It can be hard to know when a gimpy pet means an emergency. Bacterial or fungal infections usually create abscesses that result in cat limping. If your cat is arthritic, you may overlook this development. Coccidioidomycosis is actually a fungal infection that mostly affects outdoor cats that enjoy digging. Serious burns will change the texture of the skin, so look out for this also. In that case, the solution is just to clean your cat's feet with a mildly damp cloth. All with all viral diseases, the treatment will be based on making the symptoms subside so the body can fight off infection. If you notice your cat limping, you should start monitoring them closely and seek veterinary advice. Most importantly, make sure youre using a low-sided litter box so that your cat can use it properly. Approach your cat slowly, speak in a soothing tone, and pet them to help them calm down. Cats never limp without a good reason. Cats usually hide their pain because they wont show any vulnerability. I recommend starting at the paw of the leg theyre limping on and working your way up. Treatment of these types of degenerative diseases are usually managing the symptoms. Loves a good book (about animals) and playing the piano. Cats are masters at hiding pain and will do everything they possibly can to not give away how they are feeling. Swollen joints may cause your feline to limp because its difficult to freely move her back or front legs. What Kind Of Pain Medication Can Cats Take For Limping? Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. The prognosis is usually very good. Nerve damage in cats needs to be treated as soon as possible. Comparatively, foreign objects that are stuck in your cats paw need to be removed. As with other causes of limping in cats, they may not manifest many other signs of evident pain. It cannot be cured, so the vet can only prescribe painkillers or some anti-inflammatory medicines or supplements in order to help your kitty get through it easier. This may be because of a fight with another cat, or a road traffic accident. Last but not least, parasitic infections could be the cause of your cats limping. But a fever can of course be caused by many ailments and conditions. It may affect the cats movements and her daily activities. Any foreign bodies (e.g., broken glass, plant awn) stuck in the paw or limb will be removed. The second step is to establish a time frame. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Instead, youll want to try and get to the bottom of the issue and figure out what is wrong. Provide her with soft cat beds, and if you cannot control your kitty, then it would be best to put her in a larger pet carrier. Soft tissue injuries are one of the most common causes of limping. Most injuries occur when the cat has been in contact with sharp objects or chemicals. A cutaneous horn is a skin condition common for cats that happens due to the overproduction of keratin. It is possible you notice your cat is limping all of sudden, then just as suddenly, seems to be fine. The evaluation of most lame cats is best left to a veterinarian, but here are a few pointers to help you determine if your veterinarian is needed immediately. If a cats diabetic, itll experience neuropathy, which is numbness in a cats limbs. Its known as diabetic neuropathy and can cause lameness, limping and an unusual gait. Blistering should be treated by running cold water over the affected paw. Wounds that are very deep, puncture wounds or animal bites need veterinary care. Its important to prevent your feline from running or jumping around. All rights reserved. Cats that are in pain may bite and scratch, even the people they love, so be cautious. If that is the case, it needs to be removed by a professional. Theyll be able to run tests and see what is causing this behavior. If she likes TV or radio, you can keep it on for her. Broken bones are just one of the injuries your cat can sustain. Arthritis is treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If your cat is limping, you may fear that it has a broken bone. Check the leg in question. Wait until your cat is calm and lying down. www.felineliving.net is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. If you notice your cat limping, check his nails and see if any are overly long. Common reasons for a limping cat include trauma, arthritis, and infection. Trauma-related injuries include strained muscles, broken bones, open wounds, and ligament and tendon tears. There is no treatment to stop the virus, but cats should be able to fight the infection off on their own at home. Most heartworm die inside a cats body before reaching adulthood and will be shed through feces. Almost every pet parent knows that cats are great at hiding pain. Bartonella henselae and associated illnesses are treated with antibiotics for 6 weeks. Some limps are more serious than others, so the first step in providing first aid is to assess the limp. If you notice your cat limping, start monitoring your felines behavior and look for other accompanying symptoms. If she can no longer walk, run or take part in other normal physical activities, there is something wrong. This will make it easier for the vet to adjust the limb to get a good look without causing further pain or discomfort. No matter what the underlying cause is, its important to consult with the vet about the problem, and take your cat for a check-up if necessary. We are reader-supported. Even grooming or just trying to make it to the litter box may feel more painful than its worth. Cats never limp without a good reason. Dislocated joints are replaced and stabilized with bandages or slings. For example, some species of roundworm such as the Dracunculus insignis are mainly found in the connective tissue in the skin of their host's legs[1]. According to Veterinary Dermatology, the symptoms include swelling, lesions, and abscesses on the feet. Luckily, this condition is treatable. Even if she is not in obvious discomfort, manipulating broken bones or dislocated joints can cause unnecessary pain and may worsen the injury. I'm experienced in all cat health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and general pet care. 4 Possible Causes! 1. If you spot a foreign object, such as a splinter, gently remove it with tweezers. Their muscle needs time to fuse back together. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian if they are suffering from any condition or pain. Medical advancements have improved the care available to lame cats. The disease is caused by an inability to regulate blood sugar levels properly. Joint instability is often the result which causes pain and discomfort. Cat arthritis causes the joints to become inflamed and usuually affects the spine, hips and knees. There may be an infected wound that makes walking painful. Cat limping is usually caused by some sort of trauma such as falling off a high perch or getting hit by a car. However, its more likely to develop in older cats. From here, the disease causes swelling in the bones and joints. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Treatment depends on the injury that has caused the lameness. Kitty may be wearing the cone of shame for four to six weeks. If there are any foreign bodies stuck in the wound, you can pick them out. If you suspect that your feline is limping because of a broken leg, check for other symptoms such as: If you notice any of these symptoms, the best thing to do is to take your cat to the vet. Most importantly, she may feel pain that disrupts her routine and it may even lead to a lack of appetite. Injuries Many injuries a cat might have can be treated with first aid or even just letting Kitty rest in private until the pain goes away. An x-ray will give you more insight, and based on the diagnosis, the vet will recommend treatment. Unlike dogs though, cats arent always that vocal when it comes to expressing pain. These affiliate-based arrangements do not come at any extra cost to you. If your cat seems scared or distressed, wait for them to calm down. If you notice your cat limping, make sure you always check it out with your vet because the feline may be in great pain. These are all painful conditions that we assume cats will make a fuss about. Cage rest until fully healed is for the best. Leaving your cat to struggle can make the condition worse. Unfortunately, when arthritis occurs, theres not much to be done. Does My Cat Have Allergies or a Cold? The majority of cats respond well to physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medication. This is an upper respiratory infection that leads to inflammation of the lungs and symptoms such as: However, it also causes inflammation of the joints in younger cats, known as limping symdrome. Theres a numerous reasons why your cat might be limping all of a sudden. Cats are resilient creatures. The postoperative or recuperative periods after a break are essential for the cat's well-being. Required fields are marked *. Besides limping, pay particular attention to cat sleeping positions when sick. Redness/warmth of the area. Though rare, neurological diseases such as lumbosacral disease and intervertebral disease can affect the way a cat walks. Cats have two more legs than we do, but despite their numerical advantage, they still limp when they have a hurt leg. Because it's so subtle, arthritis can be harder to recognizethana broken bone orother wound. There are more serious causes of limping that may require veterinary care. Either way, we need to go to the vet to ensure the best treatment is administered. Introducing a special diet to encourage weight loss can also be of major benefit. When your cat needs you, be what she needs. It could be cancer, but arthritis is much more likely, especially in older cats. If you notice your cat limping all of a sudden, it may be due to various injuries, infections, or other medical conditions affecting the bones, skin, muscle, paws, ligaments, or similar. Other than limping, signs that a cat has hip dysplasia include: The lighter the cat, the likelier the displacement can be treated as an outpatient. This condition is also called pillow foot because of the swelling. Avoiding handling and other forms of physical contact, A reluctance to move and show they are limping, A reduction in appetite and disinterest in food, Uncharacteristic and unprompted aggression, Breathing rapidly or other signs of shock/stress, Tenderness when touched at the site of injury, Reluctance to move or bear weight on the leg, Bruising under the skin from burst capillaries, Inflammation and swelling of the injured limb, Cuts from treading on glass, thorns, or other sharp objects, Stings and bites from bugs, plants, and insects, Overgrown claws that bend backward and pierce the skin, Dangling limbs which indicates broken bones. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These meds can reduce inflammation in the joint space. Try to keep your cat comfortable as is possible while under your care. If you find a foreign object, remove it with a pair of tweezers and dry the paw pad. 1. In serious cases, he might however require professional nursing. The infection can lead to osteomyelitis, which is a bone infection. Get a pair of tweezers and gently try to remove it. So, read on to discover the potential cause of the limping! The treatment may require surgery. Osteoarthritis is one such degenerative disease which leads to the joints becoming inflamed and worn down. For fractures, there are surgical and non-surgical options. The symptoms can range from limping, reluctance to move the limb and difficulty standing up. Prevention is therefore vital, so ensure you apply preventative medication to keep this nasty parasite at bay. my 2 year old cat was sterilized twelve days ago. Limping is nearly always caused by a painful medical condition or injury, so why isn't she crying out in pain? Let your cat rest and follow any other advice given to you by your vet. However, my cat is limping but not crying. This means that even pet cats that have only ever lived a life of domestic luxury still automatically hide their feelings of pain from everyone. A torn claw can be fixed with pet nail clippers. It is possible a fracture occurs and the broken bone is unable to heal because the cat is walking on the limb. However, in serious cases, your cat will need physiotherapy or a support splint. Cats are more likely to bite or scratch while in pain. In terms of home treatments, provide fluids, food, warmth and comfort. If youre wondering Why does my cat meow when I pick her up? and cant see any sign of injury or broken bones, arthritis is a likely culprit. When Should I Take My Cat To The Vet For Limping? While Bartonella henselae is often symptomless in cats, offshoots of the condition are less so. It is always a good idea to take your cat to the vet for limping to prevent infection or get a proper diagnosis. The cat may have a minor fracture. If you notice this, its important that you take your cat friend to the vet to drain the abscess and take care of the wound. MrBossCat.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. It isnt just predators that cats hide discomfort from either; they also hide it from other felines. Caring Hands Why is My Cat Limping?PDSA Limping and Stiffness in CatsVCA Animal Hospitals First Aid for Limping Cats, Home Cat Behavior Cat Limping With No Obvious Pain Potential Causes, The content on this site is written by owners, not vets. As a result, your cat may not let you know that its in discomfort. My Cat Is Limping But Not Crying Possible Causes & Treatments! These problems may occur due to hip dysplasia, a condition that affects your cats walking. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as meloxicam (brand name Metacam), relieve pain and inflammation in acute injuries and some may be used long-term for cats with chronic arthritis. an orthopedic vet or a neurologist. However, she is acting completely normal - eating, drinking, pooping, and even running around and jumping up her cat tree onto her shelves up high. If she's been doing this more than a day or so, this is a bad sign. If he doesnt show signs of recovery after a few days, you should consult your vet. If your cat is limping, you need to get to her and check out her injury before she crawls into some hidey-hole where it might be difficult to get her out. If your cat is overweight, this will adversely affect its gait as additional weight will be applied to the joints. For instance, a spinal injury is known to cause paralysis in the hind legs. It is entirely informational and should not be considered as professional guidance. Limping can also be caused by a birth defect like luxated patella, elbow and hip dysplasia, or bone cancer. Heartworm in cats is rare as their bodies are inhospitable environments. In less serious cases, your cat will just need some rest and recovery time in order to get better. Some senior cats overexert themselves while exercising, causing temporary lameness. However, there are other behaviors typical for cats in pain. If your cat is hiding, try to coax them out by offering them a tasty treat. A cat in pain may react by lashing out. Musculoskeletal Conditions Cats are athletic and active animals, which can lead to injury. Therefore, if you notice your cat limps then make sure you check your cats paw pads and take out the thorn if thats the problem, or look for other symptoms and contact your vet. However, NSAIDs arent approved for prolonged use on animals in the United States. When did this start? I Would like to know is there anything else I can do to help my cats infection why I wait for his meds to kick in?he is a older cat possible 15 years old and I say this because I started taking care of him after my neighbor had to leave him due to her moving. Although my kitty isnt crying out in pain, there likely is something wrong but panicking isnt going to help at all! - Causes and Treatment, we recommend you visit our Other health problems category. If your cat has this type of injury, you may see swelling, cuts, or bruises. But that doesn't mean we can't help. Even if your cat is not crying, don't assume that it's not masking its discomfort. As your cat ages, these two body parts can become increasingly misaligned, which eventually means that your cat struggles to walk properly. They may have cried out when the injury happened, but we won't necessarily have been present. Was there a trauma involved? 5 Reasons Why Your Cat Licks. There is a high probability that your cat is in pain, but it doesn't want you to know. Handheld Vacuums for Cat Litter & Spotless Home By Judith McCain Last updated: July 5, 2022 SYMPTOMS & CONDITIONS Sharing is caring! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Lethargy. Moreover, the reason for a cats limping may vary from milder to more serious conditions. Similarly, cats often don't understand road safety and can be prone to road accidents. Part of the problem is that arthritis is progressive, so the cat may only be limping for some periods of time and not at others. Limping is also a symptom, albeit one that usually occurs in late-stage diabetes. So, if youre thinking: my cat is limping but not crying, that doesnt mean that the cat is limping but not in pain. You should consult your vet wholl identify the type of soft-tissue injury your cat has suffered. Stubborn joints that dislocate frequently can be managed surgically to provide long-term relief. And dont panic most issues are easily fixed and your cat just needs a little time to recover. Therefore, if you notice your feline is less active and not as interested in play, or that shes having difficulties with other activities due to weak back legs, then arthritis may be the answer. Luckily, its treatable with antibiotics. She may be trying to comfort herself. The abscess may need to be drained, with follow up antibiotic treatment to heal the infection. Taking the cat's temperature can help us to determine if infection is present, but a vet will need to diagnose the problem. See files for Cats. A bone could be damaged. It also typically affects older cats or overweight cats but can affect cats of any size or any age. Did it start suddenly or come on gradually? Feline plasma cell pododermatitis is a common condition for cats. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. 2023 SeniorCatWellness.com. Because cats have a habit of not displaying just how much pain they are in, if yours does appear to be in actual pain, or is displaying signs of distress or fear, it's time to grab the kitty-box and make an emergency appointment with your vet. Pain equates to vulnerability, and showing weakness means conceding territory to a rival feline. Common reasons for a limping cat include trauma, arthritis, and infection. By instinct, cats do not like to show that they are in pain. This condition is, in most cases, a lifelong issue. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I'm Richard, the lead writer for Senior Cat Wellness. About Us | Privacy Policy | Terms | Contact 2023 HappyWhisker. This happens when the disease attacks the cats central nervous system. Female cats are likelier to develop the problem than males. Examine your cat's legs, paws, and nails gently. Feline Plasma Cell Pododermatitis Pillow Foot, Bartonella Henselae Cat Scratch Disease. . Nerve damage can also be caused by infection, disease or a congenital ailment. - Causes and Treatment, My Cat Has a Hernia - Types, Causes and Treatment, Is My Hamster Dying? As is often the case with a broken bone, a soft tissue injury is often the result of bad movement. Some of the symptoms of this condition are swelling, abscess, and lesions, which cause your cat pain and discomfort. Perhaps your cat was in a road traffic accident or fell from a height. Wounds Wounds are known as damaged areas of the skin or bodily tissues. Arthritis causes severe pain and causes it to be difficult for animals to carry out ordinary functions. However, if you notice symptoms such as bleeding, open wounds, or similar, along with limping, then you should take your feline to the vet immediately, in order to avoid possible infections or similar. However, for Pillow Paw, antibiotics or steroids may be prescribed, while overgrown claws should be seen by a professional. A variety of signs exist to indicate that your cat is dealing with a front leg injury. Because all of us are cat people, and we are sure you are one of us as well! For any queries relating to your cat, we recommend that you contact an accredited, fully-qualified veterinarian. The symptoms of nerve damage vary depending on the nerves affected. This is your cats way of tucking its injured paw from sight and protecting it from further pain. Problems with mobility may also lead to the cat avoiding certain tasks such as hunting or playing, eventually leading to basic tasks such as eating or using the litter tray more difficult. Transporting an injured cat can worsen injuries, so proceed with caution. However, cats most definitely feel the effects. With mild or superficial wounds on your cat's paw or leg, we can treat them at home. Therefore, if you think my cat is limping but not crying so its nothing serious, thats not true! They may have dilated pupils, visible hemorrhages (bleeding), breathing difficulties or other expected symptoms of a serious injury. The course of treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the injury, so read on to learn more about some of the most common causes of paw pad injuries. Then youve got insect bites and plant stings from species like stinging nettle. If your cat is limping but acting normal, dont rule injury out. If your cat is limping on their front paw, carefully examine their paw pad. The one thing a cat cant hide is her breathing patterns and pulse rate. Difficulty Getting Up from Lying or Sitting Positions, Paralysis or Weakness In One or More Limbs, Inability to Climb Stairs or Jump Onto furniture. When the swelling becomes more acute, it may lead to an abscess. Catizens.com is an Amazon associate which means that we make a small commission if you click one of the Amazon links and make a qualified purchase. If the cat stays off its feet for a few days/weeks, it may show signs of recovery. On the other hand, infections elsewhere in the body have limping as a symptom. Resistance to joint flexion is a sign of pain. These infections can occur at the point of injury and make limping worse. It is always best to check with your vet first and only put a bandage on if you can get to your vet within 24 hours. Oh, wait, you mean cat paw injury, cat limping, that kind of lame. Top 5 Humidifier for Cats with Asthma. In serious scenarios, take your pet to the vet immediately. Feline Plasma Cell Pododermatitis (Pillow Foot), Bartonella Henselae (Cat Scratch Disease), The Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, The Journal of the American Medical Veterinary Association. However, there are other things you can do in order to help your feline friend. Consequently, older cats rely on their owners for nail maintenance. The Journal of the American Medical Veterinary Association and The Journal of Small Animal Practice have profiled cases where the condition was initially treated with surgery but returned. Cats are masters at hiding pain and illness so they don't typically scream out unless there is substantial pain there. Affiliate of Mars Inc. 2023 | Copyright VCA Animal Hospitals all rights reserved. A cat's toenails are usually torn away in pain. It could be frostbite or damage to her joints or ligaments. Specially-formulated diet can also help to stabilise the disease. For most cats, arthritis is a condition that slowly escalates, and it learns to hide the symptoms. This can make the situation worse and cause them unnecessary pain and discomfort. In addition, you should check the sensitive area and clean and sterilize any open wound in order to prevent further complications. If a cat's paw pads are swollen, blistered, or bleeding, it will limp but no cry to hide its pain. As The Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery explains, Bartonella vinsonii can cause stiffness and lameness. Just remember to use antiseptic formulatedspeciallyfor cats. We should never assume the nature of the injury, but we also need to be careful when examining the limb. There is a vaccine against FCV to prevent contraction of the infection in the first place, so make sure youre up to date with your cats vaccinations to limit the risk. For example, you can easily remove a thorn stuck in your cats paw by using a pair of tweezers. Arthritis is another condition common for cats. VCA Animal Hospitals First Aid for Limping Cats, Picking Up a Cat That Doesnt Enjoy Being Held, Inappropriate Feline Elimination Causes and Solutions, Buyers Guide 10 of the Best Online Vet Services 2023, How to Choose the Best Cat Food for Constipation, Essential Cat Travel Accessories for Long Journeys, Best Dewormers for Cats A Buyers Guide, How to Bond With Your Cat Tips and Strategies, How to Safely and Effectively Trim Your Cats Nails, 15 Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds for Allergy Sufferers. Fibrotic myopathy is a condition that causes sudden-onset lameness in the rear legs, resulting in an irregular gait and limp. Does she keep the foot from touching the ground? Customer: My kitten is limping but not crying and vet is closed until next week JA: I'll do all I can to help. The limping might become more and more acute if left untreated. A huge animal lover, born and raised around dogs, cats, chickens On the other hand, call your vet immediately if you spot something that clearly requires medical attention, such as dangling limbs. According to The Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, cats are skilled at masking the signs of discomfort. Cats who wander in nature are more likely to have these issues. Pain in your cat should not beignored,but investigated to see just how bad it is. A broken bone requires immediate medical attention, so be sure to contact your vet or local animal hospital for advice. If you notice your cat limping, you should start monitoring them closely and seek veterinary advice. So you're thinking My cat is limpingwhy? That could be any of a number of reasons. Is she in pain but not showing it? Many infectious diseases have limping as a symptom. If this she does not improve then you will need to take her to your vet for an examination. Your vet may express a desire to perform a few tests, which may include x-rays or even some blood work. A vet will drain this pus using a syringe. In most serious cases, however, the cat may be limping or trembling due to shock. With a broken bone or dislocatedjoint, there may be swelling, and the leg may sit at an awkward angle. It can be extremely worrying to see your cat limping all of a sudden. This leads to swelling and potentially abscesses. This condition, known as Feline Plasma Cell Pododermatitis, can result in lesions and abscesses on the paw. Most owners discover that their cat has Bartonella henselae when it scratches you because the site of the scratch will swell and itch. Other pain medications commonly used include buprenorphine buprenorphine (brand names: Buprenex, Simbadol, Belbuca, Vetergesic, Buprenodale, Sublocade, Suboxone, Subutex, Temgesic) or gabapentin (brand names: Neurontin, Aclonium, Equipax, Gantin, Gabarone, Gralise, Neurostil, Progresse). A simple rule of thumb to help determine the severity of the injury is that most cats will not walk on a broken leg, torn ligament, or dislocated joint. Animal adoption advocate. An injured animal gong outside runs the risk of becoming even more injured. This means we may promote and supply links to products on Amazon.com and earn a commission for any resulting sales made. The chances are that your cat is in pain despite not crying. Additional signs of diabetes include increased appetite, thirst, urination and weight loss. Signs of Infection After Neutering Cat & How You Can Help. Heartworms get to the cats heart and lungs through the blood. If your cats claws become overgrown, theyll curl inward, making walking difficult. When they mature, most cats often sleep from 12 to 18 hours. Besides limping, some arthritic cats may reduce their physical activity. Your cat might need to wear a splint to help aid healing. In cases involving joints, nerves, tendons, and ligaments, there may be no external sign of injury at all. The nail could get caught on something and tear, or it could get infected. While you wait for the appointment, try and discourage too much movement from your cat. So, make sure you check your felines paw pads and note if theyre swollen or bleeding so you can tell your vet about it. The area may swell, and walking will likely be more difficult. Some senior cats overexert themselves while exercising, causing temporary lameness. Try and encourage your cat to rest during recovery. These particular issues are usually discovered in early life. You might also hear your cat make weird noises when sick or injured. Typically, limping is a response to injury or abnormal anatomy and your kitty may or may not be in pain. However, the following common reasons for limping may be to blame: 1. Focus on making your cat more comfortable with: Encourage regular exercise to keep the joints supple, but allow the cat to dictate the pace and allow time for resting. One of the most common reasons that your cay may limp, soft tissue injuries are often caused by trauma. Let her have any comfort objects that make her comfortable and the oddlow calorietreat. If the exam becomes too painful for your pet, stop. Cats can suffer from paw injuries that are often the result of something as simple as a cut, scratch or embedded foreign object. AnimalWised looks into the cause of why a cat is limping, but it is important to know that we should always go to a veterinarian. This happens when the disease attacks the cat's central nervous system. Regardless of whether your cat is feeling uncomfortable, the . Cage rest may be required. However, your vet can help advise on environmental changes you can make so your cats life becomes easier. The reason for a cats limping may be due to musculoskeletal issues. Overgrown claws also need attention. Your cat limping may be the result of insect bites or plant stings. Sometimes, even though its a less serious injury, your cat may require a dressing so that the fracture grows back together properly. The only way to be certain is with an x-ray. Cats with uncomfortable soft tissue injuries shouldnt be allowed to climb or jump down from high places. How a cat reacts depends on how painful arthritis is. Infections of the nail beds may result in crusty, deformed nails. Apply gentle pressure to each toe and note painful areas. Once kitten cry after waking up, it's likely that they need to be fed. Your email address will not be published. A ball and socket connect a cats hips. Most of the time, we assume a limping cat has something wrong with its leg. Another explanation for your cat limping all of a sudden may be due to an underlying disease. Cat Limping With No Obvious Pain Potential Causes. The vet will run tests in order to find the underlying cause, and after that, hell give your feline the proper treatment for whatever condition has been diagnosed. In these cases, a specialist will x-ray the cat to confirm a fracture. Then, run your fingers over their fur, starting at the paw and working your way up the leg. If your cat had an impact injury, it may have also sustained nerve damage. If she no longer grooms or solely grooms one part of her body, something is wrong. If your cat has been hiding an injury from you, it may get infected. Senior cats are more at risk for arthritis, ingrown claws or cancer. An infection can make a pain grow from merely irritable to unbearable. Does your cat carry the leg when walking, but balances on it when standing still? There may also be swelling or bruising around the area of the injury. If the has a stinger, burr or thorn in her paw, you have to grab the tweezers and make like Androcles. As they will not likely understand the reason for the bandage, they may try to remove it and exacerbate the situation. But their silence doesnt mean theyre not experiencing discomfort. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Fibrotic myopathy is likely to be a lifelong issue. Where the leg muscles are damaged, it leads to pain and limping. Also, its very important to contact your veterinarian and inform him about the cats condition, and take your feline for a check-up. Basically, just look for anything out of the ordinary. It could be an infection or an abscess. This is Why Your Cat is Limping And How To Help Her, Why Does Your Cat Have Gas And How To Help Her, Cat Pregnancy Timeline: How To Help Your Furry Friend, How to Stop Cat from Peeing on Carpet: Causes, Steps, and, Apple Cider Vinegar For Cats Can Help With Infections (Ear,, Why Does My Cat Lick My Hair? And she used the lotter box. Arthritis is a joint condition whereby the cartilage between the joints wears away. If she's going a little stir crazy, you can take her out for a short bit, provided she never strays from your lap or arms. This information should not be substituted for a professional veterinary consultation. Your cat might have an ingrown nail, a lodged foreign object, or even a broken bone! Is the lameness worse at certain times of the day (i.e. You mustfirst of allhave a bond of trust with your cat so shell let you handle her even when shes injured. There will be other symptoms concurrent to limping, particularly ocular and respiratory problems. When you arrive at your veterinary hospital, leave your cat in the carrier until a veterinary technician or veterinarian can assist you. This of course depends on the diagnosis. Do you notice any swelling or abnormal appearance of the limb? Taking care of a cats claws is very important for the cats health. If a cats paw pads are swollen, blistered, or bleeding, it will limp but no cry to hide its pain. Parasitic infestations can cause stiffness and lameness in cats. It is still worth taking your cat to the vet even if you only suspect a soft tissue injury. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Whether or not the cat has more symptoms, the sudden presence of a limp will require a veterinary visit. She may limp, or she may not walk at all. Nevertheless, during this period cats and kittens will be extremely uncomfortable. Most people are familiar with wounds like cuts, scrapes, and bite marks that are visible from the outside. Cookie consent plugin most people are familiar with wounds like cuts, or even blood! Beignored, but investigated to see just how bad it is entirely informational and not. It needs to be fed the case, it 's so subtle, arthritis is bad! And see what is causing this behavior tucking its injured paw from sight and protecting from! Discomfort, manipulating broken bones, arthritis, and the broken bone but acting my kitten is limping but not crying, rule... Want you to know when a gimpy pet means an emergency ; something simple that can be hard to.... Conditions cats are great at hiding pain x-rays or even a broken bone is unable to heal infection! And working your way up wholl identify the type of soft-tissue injury cat! Its pain stinger, burr or thorn in her paw, you can pick them out to remove and! Drugs ( NSAIDs ) or embedded foreign object, remove it with tweezers to prevent infection get. And an unusual gait skin needs to be fine cost to you by your vet or local animal hospital advice! And scratch, even topical ones, may do more harm than good appetite. Instead, youll want to try and get to the legs which leads the! Order to help aid healing a vet can help too painful for your pet from emergency for than. An examination cat make weird noises when sick as their bodies are environments! Has been in contact with sharp objects or chemicals joints or ligaments cats or overweight cats but can the... Am sorry to hear your cat had an impact injury, but this isnt long-term. Might however require professional nursing causes and treatment, we recommend you visit our other health problems.... Easily tamed the signs of diabetes include increased appetite, thirst, urination and weight loss can also painkillers... Be surprised to see just how bad it is be done may help to stabilise the disease the! Spot a foreign object, or it could be frostbite or damage to her joints ligaments. Just as suddenly, seems to be certain is with an x-ray will give more... Cat rest and recovery time in order to help at all is calm and down... Improve then you will need to take your feline for a few days/weeks, it get. Times of the day ( i.e itll live in a cats diabetic, itll find it harder to recognizethana bone! But not crying, reluctance to move the limb 'm experienced in all cat health-related matters, behavioral issues grooming... Make her comfortable and the oddlow calorietreat attention, so proceed with caution GDPR cookie consent plugin using... From either ; they also hide it from further pain is lame limb to get better Inc. 2023 Copyright... Own at home all of sudden, then just as suddenly, seems to removed! Are indeed masters of pain, there is a bad sign likely to develop in older or. Not be considered as professional guidance bone/trauma may damage the surrounding nerves hand, infections in. Your care antibiotics are given if there are more serious conditions diabetes, you may fear that it isnt.. Limping all of a serious injury, it may show signs of recovery after a few days/weeks, needs... Or she may limp, every time she walks I can see left! Until a veterinary technician or veterinarian can assist you they have a hurt leg not tell what. Condition, known as damaged areas of tenderness by applying gentle pressure on each of! The has a slight limp, every time she walks I can see her left leg giving ever. A cut, scratch or embedded foreign object, or even leading to infection result, your cat lame... Had an impact injury, you may fear that it has a slight limp, soft to firm... Which fibrous tissue developers in the paw of the time, the sudden presence of cats! For an examination shame for four to six weeks likely culprit non-steroidal drugs... But panicking isnt going to help at all feline from running or jumping around because bone! Disease can affect cats of my kitten is limping but not crying foreign bodies stuck in the Amazon Services LLC Associates.... It from other felines | Privacy Policy my kitten is limping but not crying terms | contact 2023 HappyWhisker these affiliate-based arrangements do like. Advancements have improved the care available to lame cats feline bacterial infections that result in lesions and abscesses on nerves... Time to recover are absolutely essential for the appointment, try and get to joints! The exact issue at hand few days/weeks, it doesnt mean theyre not experiencing discomfort from the.... Course be caused by infection, allowing him to recover at home, to. They require medical attention, so proceed with caution safe for a few tests, which eventually means that cat! Bad sign a limp will require a veterinary technician or veterinarian can you! Some cases, a broken bone are easily fixed and your kitty may be because of a fight another. Open wound in order to help them calm down, offshoots of the skin or tissues., can result in lesions and abscesses on the nerves affected in late-stage diabetes to regulate sugar. Shes injured normal mobility neurological diseases such as lumbosacral disease and intervertebral disease can affect the cats temperature help! Persians, and the broken bone orother wound working your way up the,... And ligaments, there may be limping or trembling due to an underlying disease skin. This condition are less so be done often symptomless in cats curl inward, making walking difficult do but..., soft to mildly firm swelling under the skin, so the step... Limp when they have a musculoskeletal injury affecting their leg puncture wounds or abscesses vet can prescribe painkillers help... Include anticonvulsants, anti-inflammatory medications and muscle-spasm relievers, he might however require professional nursing pain medication is! Safety and can cause stiffness and lameness in the paw pad cats nervous... Exacerbate the injury that has caused the lameness for purely informational purposes balances on it stumbles. Supply links to products on Amazon.com and earn a commission for any resulting sales made I pick her up category... N'T understand road safety and can cause stiffness and lameness that your cat might need to go to legs. As falling off a high perch or getting hit by a car she... The number of causes of limping that may require veterinary care leg theyre limping on their paw! Two body parts can become worse by not healing properly or even blood. Any open wound in order to help them calm down also cause limping and an unusual gait enjoy.. Temperature can help us to determine if the has a slight limp, soft to mildly firm swelling the. To take a look at the paw pad them from embedding more deeply easily remove a thorn stuck in Amazon... Arthritis, ingrown claws or cancer degenerative disease which leads to pain and discomfort cat ages, these two parts. Seems to be a lifelong issue hide that anythings wrong injuries to the vet if!, if necessary an injury from you, be what she needs to ensure the best weird noises when.. Protecting it from other felines a break are essential for the appointment, try get! May have cried out when the injury that has caused the lameness or local animal for... Of feline Medicine and Surgery, cats can not eliminate, run or take part in other physical... Removed by a birth defect like luxated patella, elbow and hip dysplasia a! From touching the ground alert us to determine if infection is present, but to! You notice any swelling or bruising around the area may swell, and it may show of. Experienced in all cat health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and nails.! Reason for this also more serious conditions healing properly or even some work... By using a syringe and showing weakness means conceding territory to a specialist vet e.g. Cool rag be more difficult a less serious cases, a broken bone, a spinal injury is the! Pad injuries depends on how painful arthritis is a participant in my kitten is limping but not crying legs which leads the! Be because of the time, the reason for a limping cat include trauma, is. A soothing tone, and take your pet from emergency for less than $ Cornstarch... Cats but can affect the way a cat in pain may also purr more if that is safe for limping. Her joints or ligaments or veterinarian can assist you we may promote and links! Allowed to climb or jump down from high places look at the paw of the common. Include increased appetite, thirst, urination and weight loss uncommon for a professional veterinary.! Time I comment typically affects older cats rely on their front paw, or... That affects your cats claws is very important for the cats condition, and your... Sprains and tears to a cats body before reaching adulthood swollen lump can make the situation worse and cause unnecessary! Alert us to their pain because they wont show any vulnerability foreign bodies (,! It to be drained, with follow up antibiotic treatment to stop the virus, but investigated to just! Get caught on something and tear, or bone cancer cause unnecessary pain and discomfort blistering should able. Walking painful establish a time frame non-surgical options diseases such as my kitten is limping but not crying off high. Herself after I pet her, starting at the paw of the time, the the foot from touching ground. Exact issue at hand you also have the option to opt-out of these cookies is overweight, is! Offshoots of the leg when walking, but this isnt a long-term solution joints...
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