Why is my indoor cat limping all of a sudden?

Cat limping is usually caused by some sort of trauma such as falling off a high perch or getting hit by a car. Trauma-related injuries include strained muscles, broken bones, open wounds, and ligament and tendon tears. If your cat has this type of injury, you may see swelling, cuts, or bruises.

Why is my cat limping but not crying?

Even if your cat is not crying, don’t assume that it’s not masking its discomfort. In fact, some cats become accustomed to pain and no longer react. Common reasons for a cat to limp include trauma, arthritis (joint pain), and infection. Some senior cats overexert themselves while exercising, causing temporary lameness.

When should I take my cat to the vet for limping?

Cat Limping May Indicate a Veterinary Emergency If your cat’s leg is hanging at an awkward angle and they cannot and will not walk on it, or if there is an open wound, bleeding, or if your cat has been limping for more than 24 hours, it could be a veterinary emergency.

What should I do if my cat is limping?

My Cat is Limping These can include getting something stuck in their pet, an ingrown claw, a sprain or a broken bone. If you notice that your cat is limping, it is always best to bring them into your vet in order to prevent infection and help to stop their condition from growing worse.

Why is my cat suddenly having trouble walking?

Cats with heart disease can develop a sudden onset lameness or paralysis, essentially a sudden inability to move a limb. The most common cause of rear limb paralysis in cats is a blood clot that goes to the back leg, called a saddle thrombus or arterial thromboembolism (ATE).

How long does it take for a cat to stop limping?

If things do not improve within twenty-four hours, it is best to have the limp looked at by a vet to avoid any long-term damage. Cats are great at hiding their pain, so if she is showing signs, it is likely severe enough that your vet should take a look.

What causes back leg weakness in cats?

The most common cause of rear limb paralysis in cats is a blood clot that goes to the back leg, called a saddle thrombus or arterial thromboembolism (ATE). This clot blocks blood flow to the affected limb(s). A clot in the back leg suddenly causes the cat to be unable to put full weight on the affected leg.

How long do male indoor cats live?

While 13 to 17 years is the average life expectancy for an indoor cat, some live much shorter lives while others live well into their 20s. One kitty, Crème Puff, made it to the ripe old age of 38! Cats won’t complain when they don’t feel good.

What does it mean when a cat is limping after falling?

Trauma Cat limping is usually caused by some sort of trauma such as falling off a high perch or getting hit by a car. Trauma-related injuries include strained muscles, broken bones, open wounds, and ligament and tendon tears. If your cat has this type of injury, you may see swelling, cuts, or bruises.

Why is my cat limping after Chasing Squirrel?

A lot of times, cats limp due to simple issues like something stuck in her paw or she overworked her muscles while chasing the squirrel up the tree. The first thing you need to do is to let her relax. When she is relaxed and lying down, closely inspect her leg and paw for redness and swelling.

What causes a cat to limp with a tumor?

“Any tumor if it occurs in the right place can cause limping,” Lascelles says. “In (examining) older cats, veterinarians will have that in the back of their mind.” Lung-digit syndrome, injection site sarcoma, and lymphoma are among the cancers that can cause cats to limp, Peakheart says.

Why is my cat staying off of my leg?

Cats may stay off a leg if there’s something stuck in their paw, like a thorn or broken glass. A nail that’s grown into the paw or is torn or infected can also cause discomfort. Even walking across a bleach-coated surface could be painful for a cat’s paw pads. Cats may walk stiffly or develop a limp when they get arthritis.