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My cat is limping. Could it be a muscle strain? What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered

We noticed my cat started limping last night (left back leg). Neither of us saw him hurt himself but he does like to jump/run around crazy. It seems worse if he's been laying down for a while. Like it makes it more stiff. He's eating & using the cat litter as normal. Does seem slightly quieter than usual. I can't see/feel anything wrong (I've checked his toes and all the way). We've been trying to keep him from jumping on things but he still wants to. does it sound like he's strained his muscle?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 8th, 2016

Poor Socks! It does sound like he may have strained a muscle or ligament. It would be best to rest him for the next 48 hours. I know it's hard to keep him from jumping on things, and I would keep trying to prevent him from doing that. You may consider putting him in a small room or a large crate to keep him quiet. If he's allowed outside, I would keep him inside for the next 48 hours. If after 48 hours he's still limping, then I would take him into the vet to have him examined. He may benefit from some pain meds, and the vet can prescribe him some. Do not give him any human pain medications, many are toxic to cats and are fatal if given.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 6th, 2017

    Poor Mittens! Yes, it is possible that he pulled a muscle. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Keep him indoors if he's allowed outside, and confine him to a crate or a small room if necessary to keep him quiet. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to cats and are be fatal if given.

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