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My kitten is limping but still playing. When should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Kitten started limping after being locked in a bedroom while at work. I assume she jumped wrong off the bed. She’s walking and running on it, and playing with the other cat. She also uses the scratching post. But she’s still limping when she walks and when she sits she picks it up.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 4th, 2019

I suggest you give her a few days and just monitor it. As long as she is eating and drinking I wouldn't be overly worried at this stage. If the leg was broken or dislocated she would not be putting any weight on it at all. I would say try to minimize any running/jumping but it's a cat so........do what you can to prevent this. LOL If after about 5 days there is no or just minimal improvement then she should see a vet. DO NOT give any over the counter medications. Cats are extremely sensitive to them and you may make her worse. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 25th, 2020

    It means that Mia is in pain. I would rest her for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Keep her indoors if she is allowed outside. If she still appears painful after this time, then I would take her into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. She may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give her any human pain medications, as many are toxic to cats and are fatal if given.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 26th, 2020

    Limping means that Patrick is in pain. I see what you mean about the leg in the picture. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Keep him indoors if he's allowed outside, and confine him to a small room to limit movement. Make sure he has food, water, and a litter box there. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to cats and are fatal if given.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 29th, 2018

    Poor Patches is in pain if she's limping! I recommend resting her for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing, and keep her confined to a small room or crate to limit her movement. Do not let her outside if she is allowed to go out. If she still appears painful after this time, then I would take her into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. She may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give her any human pain medications, as many are toxic to cats and are fatal if given. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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