Why is my cat limping after a vet injection? Is it serious?

Question

My cats were each given a 56.3 mg/ml injection into their right "thighs" on Saturday and began "limping" at home (putting the entire leg hock down for support). Their demeanor didn't change and they remained playful, but the "limp" didn't improve. Sunday they received a small anti-inflammatory injection and have taken .3 mg/ml of Buprenorphine twice daily to calm them and to prevent accidental injury. 3 days after initial visit, no change in symptoms. They were fine. Now they're not. Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 12 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

It can happen that a nerve was accidentally hit during the injections, causing the limping. There's a large nerve in the cat's hind limb called the sciatic nerve, and it can be damaged if the needle hits it. It doesn't mean the vet did anything wrong, however. There is a chance the damage can be repaired, as nerves do regrow, but they grow slowly. I would give it time for the nerve to regrow and repair itself, or you could talk to your vet about a referral to a veterinary acupuncturists. There are reports that acupuncture can help with nerve healing and regrowth.

Why is my cat limping after a vet injection? Is it serious?

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