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Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 4 lbs
My cat was outside yesterday playing around on the grass after a couple of hours later she came back in the house and she was limping from her rear left leg (dragging) she can't seem to hold her weight. She walks as if she got hit by a car or someone ran over her. I picked her up and she meowed as if in pain. Put her in her bed and she hasn't moved (not normal of her). I have a feeling she was hit with something or someone threw a rock at her and hit her hind legs. Help Concerned pet parent
2 Answers

Answered By Catherine Stecyk
Veterinarian
Published on October 6th, 2018
Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on May 20th, 2018
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Crissy!
She is very cute! Possible causes are a muscle strain or sprain from jumping or falling the leg. Also since it is a front leg a fight with another cat is very high on the list. You may not see evidence of the cat bite or nail. It is too soon to have an abscess. I would keep her indoors and rest her. If she is still limping Monday or Tuesday I recommend a vet exam. They may need to shave the fur on the arm to look for a bite or nail puncture. If she goes outdoors be sure she is always up to date on her Rabies vaccine.
I wish Crissy the best!
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