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My older cat's back legs twitch when lying down. Is she in pain?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

My cat Ellie is around 8 or 9 and I've noticed her slightly jerking her back legs when she is laying down. She doesn't seem to be in pain. I'm curious to why she started doing this and would like to make sure she really isn't in any pain and what I can do to help if she is.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on January 30th, 2020

It can be very difficult to recognise pain in animsls because they are so stoic. I would recommend taking Ellie to your vet and they can do a thorough exam and check the joints for signs of inflammation and pain. It may be suggested to do a trial with a painkiller to see if it helps her. A high percentage of older cat have arthritis.

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