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My injured cat can't walk, struggles to pee/poop. Will she recover?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed

Semi-stray 4.5year old cat disappeared. After 4days, found her outside either ill or injured. She was straining to go to the bathroom; kept moving to different places & trying but nothing would come out. Couldn't walk properly with her hind legs. I spoke to vet who prescribed bisodium hydrogen citrate syrup. Gave it to her for2 days(couldn't force her today). She's peeing a little but not fully. Haven't seen her poop. Eating small portions of chicken, but not full meals. Any chances of recovery?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on October 31st, 2017

Hi there and thanks for posting. Oh dear, I am so sorry to hear Kitty was lost for a few days. That had to be very stressful. Also, I am sorry to hear she came back with a few medical issues. It is hard to say what exactly is going on with Kitty without examining Kitty first, but from your description it seems like Kitty may have injured her pelvis, spine, or rear limbs that may be causing her to not urinate properly or defecate as it may be painful for her or she has some neurological deficits disabling her to have control of her bladder. She could also have a urinary tract infection causing the straining to urinate as well. I would recommend visiting a veterinarian clinic soon so she can get some x-rays and a neurological exam in addition to a regular physical exam. They may take a urine sample to check for an infection. I hope this helps and best of luck to you and Kitty.

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