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Why is my cat suddenly in pain, walking strangely, and can't jump?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 2 years old | 11 lbs

My cat has been acting different today. I was trying to move him this morning and he meowed like it hurt and he wouldn’t move. Now I’ve realized he’s mostly been in the same place all day and his eyes just look like he’s in pain. He finally got up to walk and he walked like it was painful in his back/back legs. He tried to jump up on my table and couldn’t, he just fell back down. He still has a good appetite. I can’t tell if his back is hurt or he’s just really weak. He is always very active !

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 18th, 2020

Poor Felix. I'm concerned that he is in pain. Unfortunately there are no OTC pain relievers you can give him. Many human ones are toxic to cats and are fatal if given. I'd have him seen by a vet now.

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