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My Papillon's hind legs are weak after scratching. Is she injured?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Papillon | Female | spayed | 10 years old | 7 lbs

My Papillon had been scratching her back on the bottom of the bird cage, and now her hind legs are a bit weak. Could she have damaged something? Is it possible for her to get better now that she can’t scratch there? I don’t see any skin irritation from the scratching. Thank you for your advice.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on December 11th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! She could have developed some pain or discomfort following that incident. Certainly the fact that her hind legs seem weaker is possibly indicative of that. I recommend that as long as she is otherwise doing well with a good attitude and appetite and no evidence of severe pain or loss of the ability to walk, continue to monitor Meli closely at home. For now, keep her on cage rest with minimal activity outside or any jumping or rough housing and continue this for at least 1 week. If she is improving then continue for approximately 2 more weeks. If she is not improving or more importantly, she is worsening, have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Also, if she continues to scratch, have her evaluated by your veterinarian as this may be due to allergies for instance. Good luck!

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