Why do my cat's back legs bow inward and seem weak? Neurological?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! These are general signs that can be seen with a lot of conditions. It could be due to a neurologic condition or perhaps an orthopedic condition causing some kind of pain or discomfort. If this continues, I recommend you have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to start with a good physical examination and possibly diagnostics to get to the bottom of this so that therapy if any can be started. Have a great day!

Your cat may have either a metabolic condition like diabetes, or a developmental growth problem or orthopedic condition. The only way to know for sure is to have him examined, and have bloodwork and X-rays taken. This way you'll know what is going on and if there is any treatment you can provide him to help.

Without an exam it would be hard to say what is wrong. If this is something he's had since birth, congenital issues such as cerebellar hypoplasia can sometimes cause symptoms like poor coordination, but the cats are otherwise happy, healthy and enjoy full lives. Other muscular or nerve issues, illnesses, or injuries may also cause coordination problems, so it is always a good idea to rule out any health issues with your vet that may be treatable.

I would be most concerned either a neurologic issue, such as a slipped disc pushing on her spine, or a blood clot lodged in the blood supply for her rear end (called Feline Saddle Thrombosis). I would recommend taking her to a vet ASAP to further evaluation.

If your cat is suddenly very weak, disoriented and unable to walk normally it is best to seek veterinary care at your vet or an ER clinic immediately. It is possible there is an injury, neruologic or muscular issue, illness, or other underlying problem that should be seen ASAP especially if it is causing disorientation and weakness.

If Volkan is having issues with use of his hind end, the likely cause of this is either of musculoskeletal or neurologic origin. Usually when there is a musculoskeletal component, there will be some sort of painful element to the problem. If the problem is neurologic, typically there will diminished to absent pain response in the affected areas. There also some infectious and immune mediated diseases that can cause problems with the use of certain parts of the body. My recommendation would be to have Volkan looked at by a veterinarian to further investigate the issue. On the other hand, if he seems to be improving steadily without treatment, you can also take a wait and see approach. Best of luck to you and Volkan!

Hi. It would be helpful to know how old she is, what your veterinarian has already done. I would be concerned about either a back issue such as a disc, neuropathy possibly caused by diabetes, or someother type of neurologic issue affecting the back legs. I would recommend you ask your veterinarian for a referral to a neurologist. They would be able to imaging of the area to look more closely. I would also recommend a full blood panel to check internal functions and for diabetes. Good luck