My cat's tail is down and hurts after being outside. What happened?

It sounds like Honey has likely hurt herself in this region. She may have got her tail trapped and hurt a nerve or muscle. Have a feel and see if there are any obvious lumps or pain. Another cause could be if her anal glands are impacted, your vet can check these. Hopefully if it is a pull injury it will get better with time.

This appears to be a classic presentation of a tail-pull injury. This happens when the tail gets pulled very forcefully (either it gets stuck under something like a car tire, or gets pulled by someone). This causes significant damage to the major nerves at the base of the tail, which is very painful and can cause paralysis of the tail. This requires that you take Kovu to a vet as soon as possible. It's not an emergency, but best if you go to a vet within 24 hours, because he will need pain medication and possibly other treatment. Your vet will be able to give you a better idea about the severity of the injury and prognosis. I hope that helps and Kovu gets better soon.

It could be that Moochacho injured his back or tail while outside. I would keep him indoors tonight and do not let him outside in the morning. If his tail is still limp in the morning, give the vet a call and make an appointment for him to be seen that day. Do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to cats and are fatal if given. The vet can prescribe pain medications as needed, and treat the cause of the limp tail. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Albhe. This happens more often than you realize! It's very important you do not give him any human pain medications. Many are toxic to cats and are fatal if given. I would keep a close eye on him to see if he has any pain. Pain can be shown by him keeping his tail limp, not moving it, lethargy, or a loss of appetite. If you see any of those signs, have him seen by a vet. I hope this helps.

Poor Tas! This is a common injury, and can be quite painful. Please have him seen by a vet, as they should be able to help determine if there is a fracture based on a physical exam and x-rays, although other diagnostics may be needed. The vet can then treat appropriately, including pain management that is appropriate and safe for use in a cat, as pain medications made for humans can be very dangerous for cats, and pain medication should only be given on the advice of a veterinarian.

Keep an eye on it and give it some time. If the pain gradually recedes and your cat acts fine, then good. If it remains painful, if it is set at an odd angle or if your cat is reluctant to move it, it the tail tip gets dry, hard or gets infected, then get him seen by your vet right away.

It sounds like she may have injured her tail or pelvis, possibly from an accident or bite. If this continues beyond 12hours or she develops any fever or additional pain you should have her checked by your vet