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My cat is limping and in pain. What should I do immediately?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | 1 year old | 6 lbs

My cats leg is messed up and he’s limping. I don’t know what to do

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 18th, 2018

Please take Witt to a veterinarian for an exam and possibly xeays. Limping is always a sign of pain. Pain can be caused by a sprain, foreign body lodged in the paw, fracture or other musculoskeletal trauma. This could also be caused by an abscess or inflammation etc. Please take your kitty to your vet today, so the vet can take the pain and initiate treatment.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD
Veterinarian
Published on August 23rd, 2017
I'm sorry to hear that Socks has been limping. Lameness in cats can be caused by soft tissue injuries (to muscles, tendons, or ligaments), fractures, bone tumors, neurologic issues, among others. Limping also indicates a sign of pain, so I recommend taking Socks to his vet for an exam and possible x-rays of the affected leg. The vet may need to prescribe pain medication as well, but do not give him any over the counter pain medication, as none are safe for cats and can be fatal. Until you can get to the vet, try to keep Socks confined to a small room or crate to prevent him from running or jumping, as this could exacerbate an existing injury. I hope that he feels better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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