Any changes in your cat’s health and wellness can be worrying. This is especially true if your feline begins limping, which can indicate a serious injury that might require an appointment with a veterinarian, or just a minor issue that can heal up on its own with the right care. In either case, understanding why cats may limp and what to do about it ensures you can take swift action to help your beloved pet. Below, learn the reasons why a cat may limp and how to approach the situation. 

Reasons Why Your Cat May Be Limping

While you can’t be completely sure of the underlying issue without an examination from a veterinarian, there are a few possible causes of limping in felines, including:

• Physical Injuries: Limping can occur after a fight with another animal, after being hit by a vehicle, or after a fall. In general, outdoor cats are more prone to physical injuries than indoor ones due to traffic and other animals. 
• Arthritis: Stiff and painful joints resulting from arthritis often causes subtle limping. Your cat may appear less active or experience issues using the litter box. This is because arthritis can make climbing into and out of the box difficult. 
• Ingrown Toenail: Limping can also stem from an ingrown toenail. In this case, your cat may experience pain when putting weight on the impacted toe, which can result in an unusual gait. 
• Disease & Medical Conditions: While less common than other causes, tumors in certain areas of the body can lead to movement difficulty. Other types of degenerative neurological disorders can affect the spine and also cause problems walking. 

What to Do If You Notice Symptoms

If your cat is limping following physical trauma, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian immediately. However, if symptoms appear to be minor and they have no obvious abrasions, monitor your cat’s condition for a few days to see if the limping improves. 

During this monitoring period, pay attention to your cat’s behavior. Are they able to bear any weight on the affected limb at all, such as while standing? Also, take note of any changes during the day. Certain causes of limping, such as an intense fall, will cause problems throughout the day. However, if the problem is caused by a medical condition, limping may be worse at certain times. Be sure to provide this information to your veterinarian, as it can be helpful when making a diagnosis. 

When in need of pet care services for your cat, you want to ensure that your veterinarian is as invested in your pet’s health as you are. This is precisely the kind of compassionate service the team at High Point Veterinary Hospital provides to local pet lovers. In addition to treating injuries and medical conditions, they also offer diagnostic testing to get to the bottom of your pet’s health issues. Other services include wellness exams, vaccinations, and dental care. Schedule an appointment in High Point, NC, by calling (336) 889-3832. You can also see the full list of services on their website.