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My cat has a swollen leg and is limping. What's wrong and what to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed

My cat has a swollen leg and is limping. What can I do? What do you think it can be?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 21st, 2020

If you cat goes outdoors, this is very likely the result of a cat bite. It is amazing how small a cat bite wound can be, but under the skin, infection is building up. Have Coco evaluated tomorrow by your vet because if this is a bite wound, the sooner antibiotics are started, the sooner she will start feeling better. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA
Veterinarian
Published on April 22nd, 2017
IT is quite possible he has a cat bite abscess or other injury to the leg and would require treatment by your vet to reduce pain and fever. IF your vet cannot identify any visible cause it may be recommended to x-ray the leg to rule out fractures also.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 28th, 2017
Poor cat! This unfortunately is something from will have to get Minouch seen for. He may need anti-inflammatory medication, antibiotics, cold compresses or other diagnostic test to figure out why he has swelling. Here are some financial resources that I am hoping can help the situation:
Carecredit.com
Redrover.org
Until you can get kitty into the vet Marian apply cold compresses for 5 to 10 minutes followed by warm compresses for 5 to 10 minutes tell with inflammation pain discomfort and swelling. But make sure to try and get him in as soon as possible for further care. And at the very least you can get him examined to see what maybe going on with the leg and explore your options with the veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 12th, 2017
I think the best thing is to have him examined by a vet to determine the exact cause and best way to treat. He could just have an infection and need an antibiotic. If there is a fracture then it may heal with a splint. Without knowing the exact cause, it is difficult to know the best way to proceed. I don't think you can make a decision on putting him down without knowing exactly what is wrong with him. Your vet can take an x-ray and then recommend the best way to treat. It would also be a good idea to have him neutered.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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