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My cat is limping but bearing weight. Can I give him safe pain meds?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Siamese | Male | neutered | 2 years and 10 months old | 9 lbs

He’s limping on his front right leg 24 hours now, but he’s bearing weight, has full extension and range of motion, swats, grabs, and stretches. Eating and using the box. I felt him from the shoulder down and he flinched at the elbow. Same with me feeling everything from the toes, wrist up until the elbow. I think he tweaked it somehow and don’t think he needs an x-ray, but would like an opinion. Also to know if there is a safe amount of any medication I can give him to feel better.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Lauren Jones VMD

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on May 28th, 2020

Poor Sagan! I'm glad to hear that he's bearing weight on his right front leg. Since he's a young and presumably active cat, limping occurs most commonly from injuries. As you'd mentioned, it's possible that he has a soft tissue injury of the muscles, tendons or ligaments, or a fracture. Unfortunately, there are no safe over the counter pain medications for cats, as all cause serious toxic side effects. It would be ideal for Sagan to go to his vet for an exam. The vet may recommend x-rays right away, or may offer a trial of prescription pain medications and rest. If you aren't able to take him to a vet right away, then be sure to restrict his activity to a dog crate or small room where he is unable to run, jump or play for a few days. (Easier said than done, I realize.) If this is a mild soft tissue injury, he may just need some time to rest and heal. If the limping continues or worsens, then he will certainly need veterinary attention. I hope this helps and that Sagan is on the mend soon!
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 18th, 2018

    It could be that Timone has broken a bone or could have severely strained or torn a ligament. This is something that should be seen by a vet, as he won't put pressure on his paw and the limp has gotten worse. That shows he is pain. The vet may want to do x-rays to see if a bone has been broken, and will probably prescribe pain medications. Do NOT give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to cat and are fatal if given. Because he is in pain, he does need pain medication which can only be prescribed by a vet. Please take him into a vet tomorrow for treatment.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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