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My cat is limping on her back leg, but I see no injury. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Ragdoll | Female | spayed

I noticed my cat (4 years old) limping this morning (bouncing off or avoiding her right hind leg). I haven't noticed any abnormalities on the leg. How can I best care for her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 23rd, 2020

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Limping in a cat is much less common than limping in dogs. Usually if a cat is limping it is a more significant injury. Even though you do not notice anything outwardly abnormal there is definitely a problem if she won't use that leg. The issue could be a soft tissue injury, bone injury (like a fracture or dislocation), a joint problem or a nerve injury. There is no way to tell without having a vet examine her and have some x-rays done. If you want to give her a few days to see how she goes you can certainly do that as long as she is eating and drinking well. But, if after about 3 days she is not much improved she definitely needs to see a vet. You cannot give cats over the counter human medications like paracetamol, aspirin, etc. Cats are EXTREMELY sensitive to those medications. It is best to just monitor her and keep her indoors, calm and quiet. Try to minimize her jumping, running, playing the best you can. Hope this helps. If you have more questions you can always opt for a private consultation where we can chat back and forth. That way you can ask as many questions as you'd like. Best wishes!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 28th, 2019

    Hello. I would recommend having her examined. She may have an inapparent wound, a damaged nail bed, perhaps even a fracture or soft tissue injury in the paw. Even if nothing significant is found, she will benefit from some pain medications & this will make her much more comfortable. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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