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My cat suddenly can't walk. What's wrong and what should I do now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | unneutered

My baby boy has always been quiet, shy and kind of the runt but super sweet. The other day I noticed he was not walking right. His legs would give up. I thought maybe he was attacked by one of our other cats. But thats never happened. But shortly after I noticed that he couldn’t walk at all. I’ve been syringe feeding him water and hand feeding him. I just want an idea of what this could be and what to do. I thought maybe a stroke but I’m unsure.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 29th, 2018

I am very sorry to hear about Baby boy. I would recommend bringing him in to a vet right away for examination. Being unable to walk is considered an emergency and can many causes, including a saddle thrombus (blood clot blocking supply to the hind legs), a neurological problem such as trauma to the spinal cord or a herniated disk in the spine, a stroke is possible but less common in animals, vestibular disease, brain lesions, electrolyte imbalances due to diabetes or kidney disease, musculoskeletal problems, and more. He truly needs veterinary attention ASAP for his best chance at recovery. Best of luck to you and Baby boy!

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