Should I amputate my cat's broken leg due to low bone density?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Female | spayed | 13 years and 11 months old | 5 lbs
My cat has a bad break in her right femur obviously taken straight to vets, she has low bone density and they have said if they try to screw and plate her leg there is a chance that it might shatter have also given the option of amputation, she is home with us till surgery on Monday, she is on high pain relief administered 3 x morphine daily and 1 dose of Metacam they want the swelling to go down, at the moment we have opted for amputation are we doing the right thing,
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on August 9th, 2018
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Stitch! I think you are doing the right thing. If her bone density isn't normal then she will have a hard time healing and it will take her longer, could be more painful and put her through more. Amputating the leg will be uncomfortable for her for 5-7 days then she will do great. Cats do well on 3 legs! I wish you the best!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on February 20th, 2019
Hello. I agree with your vet. Allie will always be in pain as long as she has to deal with that bad leg. Removing the leg will get rid of her pain, & a 3 legged cat can do very, very well. I would consider the surgery as the leg will never improve on its own. Thank you so much for rescuing & caring for her & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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