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My new cat is lethargic with leg spasms after adoption. Is it normal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 7 lbs

I brought Faelynn home yesterday from the humane society and today she is having light muscle spasms in her legs and she is lethargic. She hasn't had exposure to anything toxic and her diet is the same. She seems relaxed and is purring a lot and she doesn't have diarrhea or vomiting. I'm definitely concerned and unfortunately have work the next few days so don't really have the ability to rush her to a vet.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 20th, 2018

Muscle spasms can be normal, sometimes humans have muscles twitching out of nowhere and it's not a serious problem. It's good that Faelynn isn't having any diarrhea and vomiting, and the lethargy could be due to the transition to a new home. That can be stressful for a cat. I'm wondering if she is eating and drinking. If she is eating and drinking, I wouldn't get too worried yet and rush her into a vet. Keep an eye on her, and if she stops eating or drinking, starts vomiting or having diarrhea, or continues to be lethargic over the next 48 hours, then I would take her into the vet. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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