Injuries happen unexpectedly. What's important is seeking care promptly if your feline friend begins to limp or show pain. Here, our Poway vets discuss the common causes of limping in cats and advise when to seek veterinary care for their condition.
My cat is limping – why?
Countless reasons may cause a cat to begin limping. Whether your cat is limping from a front leg or back leg, it's crucial to take them to the vet if they have a limp. Many conditions that cause limping could worsen over time or lead to infection. The cause of your cat's limping may not be immediately obvious, but simple first aid, such as trimming their claws or removing a thorn from their paw, could help. Here, we answer questions like, 'Why is my cat limping all of a sudden?' and 'Should I take my cat to the vet for limping?'
Why is my cat limping but not in pain?
It's important to realize that cats will do everything they can to hide any pain they may be feeling. If your cat limps, it's likely in pain, even if other symptoms aren't apparent. If your cat starts limping, check for swelling, redness, or open wounds. If you notice any of these, promptly contact a vet.
What are the common causes behind limping in cats?
Below are some of the most common causes of limping in cats:
- Something stuck in their paw
- Sprained or broken leg caused by trauma (being hit, falling, or landing wrong)
- Walking across a hot surface (stove, hot gravel, or pavement)
- Ingrown nail/ claw
- Being bitten by a bug or other animal
- Infected or torn nail
- Arthritis
What should I do if my cat is limping?
If you notice anything odd with how your cat is walking, you should wait for them to relax, then gently examine their leg and paw. You can do this by running your fingers down the site for sensitive areas and looking for signs such as open wounds, swelling, redness, and dangling limbs. You can begin at the paw and work your way up the leg.
If the issue is something like a thorn or overgrown nails, gently remove it with tweezers or trim the nails as usual (or have your vet do it). If you cannot determine the cause of the limp and your beloved kitty is still limping after 24 hours, schedule an appointment with your vet.
It can be difficult to determine whether your cat has a broken leg. The symptoms of a break can resemble those of other injuries or a sprain (such as swelling, limping, holding the leg in an odd position, or lack of appetite). We recommend contacting your primary care vet or our 24-hour veterinary clinic if your cat is limping.
To prevent the issue from worsening while you wait for your vet appointment, limit your cat's movements by keeping them in a room with low surfaces or placing them in their carrier. Ensure their comfort by providing a cozy place to sleep, such as a kitty bed, and keep them warm with their favorite blankets. Continuously monitor their situation.
When should I take my cat to the vet for limping?
Anytime your cat shows signs of pain or injury, you should have them evaluated by a vet. Here are some situations where you would want to call a vet.
- You can't identify the cause
- They have been limping for more than 24 hours
- There is swelling
- An open wound
- The limb is dangling in an odd position
Don't hesitate to contact your vet immediately if you notice signs of your cat limping, such as bleeding, swelling, or an unusual limb position. Taking prompt action can help prevent infection or further deterioration. If you're unsure how to handle the situation, contact your vet for guidance on the necessary steps.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.