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Why is my cat walking weird, lifting legs, purring, and shivering?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 years and 8 months old

My cat began walking weird, lifting his hind legs high off the ground (like when a cat wears socks). And then he went to lay down on a chair. That’s when he couldn’t close his legs. He layed on his back with this legs in the air and rolled around seemingly annoyed. Then he closed then after a minute. Then he stuck his tail straight up. The he scrunched his face and covered it with his front paw and began purring and shivering. He also pushed out this back legs and dug his nails in. Lasted 1 min

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 8th, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. What an interesting episode! Milo could have acted this way for a number of reasons including: - bite or sting on one of the back paws - litter or tape stuck on the paws -back or leg pain -neurological problem If he seems normal now, I would just monitor for another episode. If possible, catch another episode like this on video for your vet. If he has any other weird or concerning signs, see your vet sooner. Best wishes to you and Milo!

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