What to do if I find a kitten that can't walk or only crawls?

Inability to walk, confusion, staggering, etc are all very serious and concerning signs that require veterinary care ASAP. Unfortunately, Whiskers needs to be seen by a vet in person to be examined and the underlying cause of his issues found. Anything from illness, injury, neurologic or muscular issues, malnutrition, etc can be causing this, so he needs to be seen. As with any stray that is found, scheduling a vet visit ASAP to have him examined, vaccinated, etc is always best. While this website is more US-centric, this link may help you find some ways to make vet care more affordable so Whiskers can get to the vet and be treated: http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html

This is a medical emergency, and Mochi has to see a vet now. She may have been hit by a car or severely attacked. This is not something that can be treated at home, and leaving her in this condition would be cruel. Please take her into a vet now.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I strongly recommend taking the kitten to the vet. She may have an injury to that leg, or to her back. She may require x-rays if a fracture is suspected. in the meantime keep her confined to a small area such as a dog crate - room enough for sleeping, food, water and litter box but no running or playing. Do not give her any pain medications as many are toxic to cats.

He may have a congenital deformity or an injury from before you got him. X-rays would help your vet determine what is going on with his bones to make his walk seem wrong. But there may be nothing we can do to fix it. As long as he can eat, drink, and use the potty, he will be able to adapt to any situation! Just remember that if he has trouble walking he may not be able to get away from other pets, so he should never be let outside, and you may consider not getting any other dogs or cats while you have him.

This kitten will need to be seen by a veterinarian. It may be possible to orthopedically treat the kitten by applying braces or similar means to help it strengthen its front legs. It is necessary for the kitten to be examined and treated as it will not be able to walk properly on the front legs like this, making it prone to injuries and infections.

It sounds like Ming was very badly injured and it is best to seek veterinary care ASAP. Even if he is improving, there could be internal injuries such as broken bones or organ damage from being shut in the door that are not visible to the naked eye. A complete exam is always best, especially if he is in pain, can't walk or move properly, or is now having seizures. If you cannot afford veterinary care, this site may help give you ideas to make it affordable so Ming can get the care here needs: http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html

Great question! The only way to tell is by having an x-ray done by your veterinarian - this will show exactly what is wrong with the bone, and will also give the information needed to determine whether it can be fixed or not. I would recommend taking the kitten to your vet for an exam and x-rays as soon as you are able to - he/she will be able to advise you further on what can be done to help the kitten, depending on what the x-rays show.