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My cat's old broken foot healed wrong. Can it be re-broken and fixed?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 8 years and 8 months old | 14 lbs

My cat Salem is suffering—our local veterinary helped as much as they can. He broke the main metatarsal in his back left foot 2 years ago so drags it when he walks. The vet initially thought he'd heal without a splint so decided against it because he said he'd just bite it off. Now it's fused improperly & we hope to fix it so he can walk normally again. We found videos online of vets performing on cats under anesthesia to administer splints. Maybe it could be re-broken & splinted? Please advise!

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 13th, 2017

I'm sorry that Salem is having this issue. I bet he is in pain :( Once a metatarsal is fused it is impossible to re-break and splint to get it to heal. Even if they could do that (which I highly doubt) it would most likely need to be fixed with plates and screws; splinting will not help. I suggest you consult with an orthopedic surgeon. They will tell you how the leg can be fixed or even if it can be fixed at this point. The surgeon may know of a way to fix it that your vet may not be aware of. Ask your vet about a referral to a surgeon. Honestly, in my opinion, it is better to amputate the limb. Cats (and dogs) do AMAZINGLY well with 3 legs. I have had numerous 3-legged cats and dogs (my personal pets) that once they have the surgery they never look back. The source of pain is gone and they adapt to using 3 legs very easily. That will be the easiest and least painful option for him and it will heal very quickly. The surgery is very easy and quick to do. He will heal in no time and will no longer be suffering. I hope this helps. If you have more questions feel free to ask. Best wishes.

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