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Cat with fractured spine: Will he walk again? Is his pain medicine working?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 4 years and 4 months old | 12 lbs

I work at a shelter and we have a Male cat right now who was likely HBC and has a fractured spine. Has some feeling in legs, but cant really move lower half of body. Vet has him on buprenex IM injection BID but he still cries a lot, I think he's lonely ): what are the chances that his fracture may heal? Your best guess is more than fine. I just want to know if having him go through this is worth it or if he will likely be mostly paralyzed forever? Also is this a good pain med?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 21st, 2018

Hello, its difficult to assess if he will recover from this injury as there are no x-rays to evaluate. If his does have a fractured back, and currently is unable to move legs then his prognosis for recovery may not be great without surgery. Buprenorphine is great pain medication for cats. Sorry to hear about Little bit, I hope he recovers well!!

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