
Limping Cat
My 10 year old Siamese cat recently (a day ago) started limping, favoring one leg. She can still get around, eat, jump up on the bed, etc... She doesn't appear to be in any pain, just looks a little discomforted. Someone mentioned cats having arthritis and this may be the cause? Since she wasn't in any pain, I didn't know whether or not to run her off the vet hospital or watch her for a few days and see if it gets any better. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Your cat likely avoids using the leg to avoid pain. You may not be able to determine the cause and severity of the pain, but your veterinarian can. It may be a simple sprain that will go away on it's own, or it can be an abscess, a thorn, arthritis or one of many other possible causes. Arthritis usually starts subtly and increases gradually. Abscesses, fractures, thorns and sprains occur suddenly. Since it could be something needing medical attention, I recommend taking your cat to the doctor immediately. If it is much better is less than 24 hours, then you may be OK just waiting and watching.
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Limping Cat

My 10 year old Siamese cat recently (a day ago) started limping, favoring one leg. She can still get around, eat, jump up on the bed, etc... She doesn't appear to be in any pain, just looks a little discomforted. Someone mentioned cats having arthritis and this may be the cause? Since she wasn't in any pain, I didn't know whether or not to run her off the vet hospital or watch her for a few days and see if it gets any better. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Your cat likely avoids using the leg to avoid pain. You may not be able to determine the cause and severity of the pain, but your veterinarian can. It may be a simple sprain that will go away on it's own, or it can be an abscess, a thorn, arthritis or one of many other possible causes. Arthritis usually starts subtly and increases gradually. Abscesses, fractures, thorns and sprains occur suddenly. Since it could be something needing medical attention, I recommend taking your cat to the doctor immediately. If it is much better is less than 24 hours, then you may be OK just waiting and watching.

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