Regardless of whether your cat is a curious outdoor explorer or a chilled-out homebody, accidents can happen. Today, our Cumming vets share signs that may indicate that your cat has a broken leg, and what you should do.
Even The Most Agile Cats Can Have Accidents
Cats are playful and curious creatures that tend to get into trouble now and again. Because of this, accidents are bound to happen. It's important to be able to recognize signs of pain in your cat in order to have them treated promptly.
Assessing The Signs - Sprain or Break
Although the symptoms of a sprained leg and those of a broken leg are very similar, a sprain is a stretched ligament or tendon whereas a break is an injury to the bone.
Both sprains and leg breaks can both be caused by anything from car accidents to falls.
Signs That Your Cat's Leg May Be Broken
If you notice any of the following symptoms in your cat, there is a chance that they could have an injured or broken bone:
- Refusal to put weight on the leg
- Crying or howling
- Wincing
- Hissing or biting at you
- Lack of appetite
- Refusal to groom
- Visible deformity or open wound
- Noticeable bruising or swelling
What To Do If You Think Your Cat May Have a Broken Leg
If there's a chance that your cat's leg is broken it's time to take action so that your cat's pain can be managed and the leg can be treated and begin to heal properly.
Try to keep your cat as still as possible, and keep your cat warm by wrapping her in a towel or blanket.
Call your emergency vet clinic to let them know what has happened and that your cat requires urgent veterinary care.
Stay calm and follow any instructions that may be given to you by the veterinary professional on the phone. Then bring to your injured cat to the emergency animal center as quickly and safely as possible.
Treating a Cat's Broken Leg
When you arrive at your veterinary hospital your vet will begin emergency treatment which may include intravenous fluids, pain relief, and/or ventilation. X-rays will likely be taken to assess your cat's leg and determine the details of the break.
Once your cat is stable and comfortable the vet will explain the various treatment options available, and advise you on which treatment will be best for your pet.
Your vet may recommend non-surgical treatments such as cage rest, a cast or a splint, to help your cat's broken leg heal, but in many cases, surgery will be required. If your cat's injury is complex, a veterinary surgeon may be called in to perform the operation.
Caring For a Cat With a Broken Leg
Your veterinary team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your kitty once you get back home.
It's likely that you will need to restrict your cat's activities. Keeping your kitty indoors and preventing your cat from jumping and running will be essential to healing the injury as quickly as possible.
Try keeping your cat in a warm room, free from furniture that may encourage her to jump. Or consider purchasing a cage that will give your cat room to move but prevent her from jumping. Be sure to provide your cat with easily accessible food and water, and follow your vet's instructions regarding any medications prescribed for your cat.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.