Why Is My Cat Limping?

Cats are experts at hiding pain, so a limp is often one of the few clear signs that something is wrong. A cat limping on a front paw or back leg may have a minor paw injury, or something more serious like a bite abscess, a fracture or arthritis. Here’s how to figure out what might be going on and when to call a vet.

Common causes of limping in cats

Paw and claw injuries

• Cuts or splinters in the paw pads
• Torn or broken claws
• Ingrown claws, especially in older cats and cats with extra toes
• Something stuck between the toes

Bite wounds and abscesses

Outdoor cats that fight can get puncture wounds that turn into painful, swollen abscesses. Limping often appears a few days after the fight.

Sprains and strains

Jumping off furniture or rough play can strain muscles or ligaments.

Fractures and dislocations

Falls from heights, car accidents and other trauma can cause broken bones.

Arthritis

Arthritis is very common in senior cats but often goes unnoticed. Cats may limp, jump less, or have trouble using the litter box.

Other causes

• Ligament tears, like a torn cruciate ligament in the knee
• Infections in the bone or joint
• Nerve damage from diabetes, which can cause a flat-footed walk on the back legs
• Tumors
• Blood clots, which can cause sudden back leg weakness or paralysis

How to check your cat’s leg

If your cat will let you, in a calm, quiet space:

1. Look at the paw pads and between the toes for cuts, swelling or objects.
2. Check the claws for damage or claws growing into the pad.
3. Feel gently along the leg for swelling, heat or pain.
4. Watch your cat walk and note which leg they favor.

Stop if your cat seems painful or tries to bite. A hurt cat may lash out, even with people they trust.

When is a limp an emergency?

Go to a vet right away if your cat:

• Can’t put any weight on the leg
• Has a leg that’s dangling, bent at an odd angle or very swollen
• Has an open wound or bleeding
• Suddenly can’t use both back legs, or the legs feel cold
• Fell from a height or was hit by a car
• Is crying, hiding or not eating

Our guide to pet emergency signs explains other urgent symptoms.

Never give human pain medicine

Many human pain relievers, including acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen, are toxic to cats. Even one tablet can be deadly. Our pet poison guide lists other dangerous medicines.

How will a vet treat it?

Depending on the cause, your vet may:

• Clean and treat wounds or abscesses
• Trim or treat damaged claws
• Take X-rays to look for fractures or arthritis
• Prescribe pain relief that’s safe for cats
• Recommend rest or, for fractures, a splint or surgery
• Suggest arthritis care, like joint supplements, weight loss and home changes

Helping a cat with arthritis

• Add ramps or steps to favorite spots
• Use a litter box with low sides
• Provide soft, warm beds
• Keep your cat at a healthy weight

Our article on what to expect at every stage of your cat’s life covers other senior cat changes.

Frequently asked questions

My cat is limping but acting normal. Should I worry?

Mild limps may improve with rest, but if it lasts more than a day or two, see a vet.

Can a cat’s sprain heal on its own?

Minor sprains often heal with rest, but a vet should rule out fractures.

Is your cat limping? Ask a vet

Talk to a licensed vet 24/7, even on holidays, by chat, voice call or video call. Your first month is free with code FREEMONTH, then US $9.99/month, at NYPTeleVet.com. One membership covers up to 6 pets, and you can cancel anytime.

Our vets can’t prescribe medication, but they’ll tell you what’s likely needed and when an in-person visit is the next step.

Sources

• Why Is My Cat Limping? Causes, Treatment, and How To Prevent It, PetMD
• First Aid for Limping Cats, VCA Animal Hospitals
• Why Is My Cat Limping?, Hill’s Pet Nutrition