Cats are curious and active creatures, and most cats will get hurt at some point. Whether your cat prefers staying indoors or exploring the outdoors, there are many reasons why your cat might start limping. In this blog post, our Lithia Springs vets will discuss the causes of limping in cats and what you should do if your cat is limping.
Why is my cat limping but not in pain?
Our feline friends can't communicate how they feel or where they're hurt, so it can be challenging to determine why your cat is limping. Cats may limp for various reasons, such as something stuck in their paw, a sprain, a break, or an ingrown claw. Even though it might not be obvious, your cat could be in significant pain. Cats often hide their pain as an instinct, so it's essential to recognize that limping indicates discomfort, even if they don't show it.
It's always best to take your cat to the vet if it's limping to prevent infection and its condition from worsening. The cause of your cat's limp might not be easy to spot, but the treatment could be as simple as trimming its claws or removing a tiny splinter from its paw.
It's important to monitor your pet's health regularly, and observing their normal gait is part of that. Always look for lumps, bumps, swelling, redness, and open wounds. If you notice any of these, contact your vet. We believe that it's always best to be cautious when it comes to your cat's health.
Why is my cat limping all of a sudden?
Limping in cats typically comes on suddenly. Below are just a few of the most common reasons why your cat might be limping:
- 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 your cat is limping, try running your fingers down the affected leg, watching your cat's reactions, and feeling for any sensitive areas. Keep an eye out for open wounds, swelling, redness, and, in extreme cases, dangling limbs. Start at your cat's paw and gently work your way up.
If you discover a thorn or splinter, gently pull it out with tweezers and clean the area with soap and water. Monitor the area to ensure an infection doesn't take hold as the puncture wound heals. If overgrown nails are the issue, trim your cat's nails as usual (or have them done by your vet).
If you cannot determine the cause of your cat's limp and it has continued for more than a day or two, it's time to make an appointment with your vet.
It can be challenging to tell if your cat's is limping because of a broken front leg or back leg. This is because the symptoms of a fracture can mirror those of other injuries such as a sprain (swelling, a limp, leg being held in an odd position, lack of appetite).
While waiting for your vet appointment, do what you can to limit your cat's movements to prevent further injury or worsening the injury. Do this by keeping them in a room with low surfaces or putting them in their carrier. Ensure they are comfortable by providing a comfy place to sleep or a kitty bed and keeping them warm with their favorite blankets. Continue to monitor their situation.
Should I take my cat to the vet for limping?
It is always a good idea to take your cat to the vet for limping to help prevent infection and to get a proper diagnosis. If any of the following situations apply to your cat, make an appointment with your 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 clearly broken
- Your cat is hiding
- Your cat is howling or showing other clear indications of pain
Don't wait 24 hours if there is a visible cause such as bleeding, swelling, or the limb hanging strangely; call your vet immediately to prevent infection or a worsening condition. You should also call your vet if you do not know how to handle the situation. Your vet can advise you on the next steps to take.
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.