My cat is limping and in pain after being outside. What should I do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 4 lbs
My cat was outside yesterday playing around on the grass after a couple of hours later she came back in the house and she was limping from her rear left leg (dragging) she can't seem to hold her weight. She walks as if she got hit by a car or someone ran over her. I picked her up and she meowed as if in pain. Put her in her bed and she hasn't moved (not normal of her). I have a feeling she was hit with something or someone threw a rock at her and hit her hind legs. Help Concerned pet parent
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on October 6th, 2018
Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Based on the information you have provided, and the attached pictures, I am also very concerned that Sprinkles may have sustained significant trauma, causing her to be non-weightbearing lame on her left hind leg. Whether she was hit by a car or potentially fell and injured her leg, it sounds like she is in a significant amount of pain. She also looks like she has abraded skin (a wound) on that leg as well, which is at risk of becoming infected. I recommend having her seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible to have her injuries addressed. He/she will perform a full physical exam to localize her pain and determine if she has other, more life-threatening injuries such as damage to her chest or abdomen. X-rays may be indicated if a fracture is suspected. Ultimately, pain medication and antibiotics can be prescribed to help ease her pain and prevent infection. Importantly, NEVER give pain medication that is intended for humans to your pet, as these can be fatally toxic. I hope this is helpful!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on May 20th, 2018
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Crissy! She is very cute! Possible causes are a muscle strain or sprain from jumping or falling the leg. Also since it is a front leg a fight with another cat is very high on the list. You may not see evidence of the cat bite or nail. It is too soon to have an abscess. I would keep her indoors and rest her. If she is still limping Monday or Tuesday I recommend a vet exam. They may need to shave the fur on the arm to look for a bite or nail puncture. If she goes outdoors be sure she is always up to date on her Rabies vaccine. I wish Crissy the best!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Well I saw a cat get hit by a car, I could not leave it in the road but I can't afford a vet bill. He is limping on his left side it don't look bad but if I touch it he crys is there some way u could help me. I wud like to keep him he is so sweet. Th
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