Why is my kitten shaking her back legs when she's excited?

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Hmmmm, I’d really have to see Lumi to determine if this is problematic. When I hear about a kitten with odd shaking concerns, I do think about a neurological disorder such as cerebellar hypoplasia....and symptoms can become more obvious when the cat is focusing on a task (“intention tremors”)..... but it’s usually pretty apparent and I think I’d be hearing more concern from you. If Lumi is completely normal in every other way, and this is just a little “shiver” sort of shake, then it’s likely normal. Sometimes they’ll shiver/tremble when they’re very excited, or nervous, both of which could come into play when eating. So, no concrete answer but I suspect this is normal. However, if it looks concerning to you (and certainly if you feel anything else about Lumi’s movements look odd) then it’s worth having your vet take a look at her to be safe. Hope this helps!

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. Sometimes during the deep phase of sleep, animals can twitch or have muscle twitching. This is completely normal. I would recommend bringing in a fecal sample in to the veterinarian so that the most appropriate deworming medication can be prescribed. If the leg shaking worsens, I would consult with the veterinarian for more information. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

Without an exam it would be hard to say what is wrong. If this is something he's had since birth, congenital issues such as cerebellar hypoplasia can sometimes cause symptoms like poor coordination, but the cats are otherwise happy, healthy and enjoy full lives. Other muscular or nerve issues, illnesses, or injuries may also cause coordination problems, so it is always a good idea to rule out any health issues with your vet that may be treatable.

If you can wake her up and the shaking stops it is not a seizure and is more likely movement associated with REM sleep. If you try to wake her up but she continues to have muscle tremors it could be a seizure or neurologic disorder and you should see your veterinarian. If you do decide to see your veterinarian a video can help them determine what might be going on.

He is just overly excited. This is a normal cat behavior. I wouldn't worry at all, my own cat does this when he gets excited about me being in the same room with him. Best wishes with your kitty Koala and enjoy every moment with your new companion. Take care!

Hello. It very well may just be that Simon is a bit of a nervous kitty. The only other plausible explanation might be some kind of neurological condition going on, but I would think your vet would have seen something else during the exam to corroborate this. A slight difference in pupil size or even a slight abnormal movement in the eyes, for example. Otherwise, I do not think I would be overly concerned about this, either. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

It could be Shaky is in pain, either from his back or hips. Rest him tonight, keep him indoors if he's allowed outside, and watch him. If he's still acting this way in the morning, have him seen by a vet. Do not give him any human pain medications. Many are toxic to cats, and are fatal if given. Best of luck.