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Why is my cat limping and holding his front paw up when walking?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | unneutered

Hi my cat is holding his front left paw up and hopping when walking what could be wrong

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 18th, 2017

Hi! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There is a variety of conditions that can make Gerrald limp. These include a fracture, a laceration of the paw or something stuck in the paw, a soft tissue injury or even a bone tumor which of course would be the worse possible cause (unlikely).

I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian for an examination and possibly radiographs to rule out some of those conditions and recommend treatment based on findings. Good luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 30th, 2017
This can happen with some soft tissue damage (tendon, ligament or muscle tears), or possibly with a deep infection. I think it would be best to have a vet check him out, since it has been going on for a couple of weeks. The vet will likely be able to narrow down the cause of this at exam and offer a good treatment option.

I hope that helps and Hunter gets better soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 7th, 2019
Hello. The most common injuries we see in cats are bite wounds that develop into abscesses, & paws that are stepped on or get slammed in doorways. If Midnight goes outdoors, I would guess he got in a fight with another cat. Your veterinarian can determine if this is the case & a round of antibiotics & pain medicine will prove curative for Midnight. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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