Is my cat's leg shaking when stretching normal or a concern?

It is very difficult to say without seeing what she is doing myself. I suggest you video her doing the behavior and then show your vet at her next exam. If she seems normal in every other way I'm not sure I'd be too worried about it especially if it is only when she stretches.

I would not be concerned about her twitching a little when you touch her back. Sometimes when cats get happy and excited they seem like they are shaking their back/lower body but it is just the stance that they are in. Without seeing what she is doing it is hard to say if it is something to be concerned about. A lot of times your veterinarian will be willing to look at the video to see if it is something to be seen or not. I would call and see if they will be willing to look at a video on their email (if they have one). Otherwise if she is acting completely normal otherwise I wouldn't worry at this time. If things change or the shaking gets worse then I would recommend evaluation with a veterinarian. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Hmmmm, I’d really have to see Lumi to determine if this is problematic. When I hear about a kitten with odd shaking concerns, I do think about a neurological disorder such as cerebellar hypoplasia....and symptoms can become more obvious when the cat is focusing on a task (“intention tremors”)..... but it’s usually pretty apparent and I think I’d be hearing more concern from you. If Lumi is completely normal in every other way, and this is just a little “shiver” sort of shake, then it’s likely normal. Sometimes they’ll shiver/tremble when they’re very excited, or nervous, both of which could come into play when eating. So, no concrete answer but I suspect this is normal. However, if it looks concerning to you (and certainly if you feel anything else about Lumi’s movements look odd) then it’s worth having your vet take a look at her to be safe. Hope this helps!

It could be Shaky is in pain, either from his back or hips. Rest him tonight, keep him indoors if he's allowed outside, and watch him. If he's still acting this way in the morning, have him seen by a vet. Do not give him any human pain medications. Many are toxic to cats, and are fatal if given. Best of luck.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This may not be concerning depending on its longevity. This may be an isolated episode which is why I think it would be ok to monitor for now if Loki is otherwise doing well. However, if he is not doing in well in any way or this continues, he should be evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Sometimes spasms are caused by electrolyte imbalances or pain, among other possibilities. Good luck and have a great day!

He is just overly excited. This is a normal cat behavior. I wouldn't worry at all, my own cat does this when he gets excited about me being in the same room with him. Best wishes with your kitty Koala and enjoy every moment with your new companion. Take care!

If you can wake her up and the shaking stops it is not a seizure and is more likely movement associated with REM sleep. If you try to wake her up but she continues to have muscle tremors it could be a seizure or neurologic disorder and you should see your veterinarian. If you do decide to see your veterinarian a video can help them determine what might be going on.