Sage-Tips

Why do kittens lose control of their back legs?

The most common cause of rear limb paralysis in cats is a blood clot that goes to the back leg, called a saddle thrombus or arterial thromboembolism (ATE). This clot blocks blood flow to the affected limb(s). A clot in the back leg suddenly causes the cat to be unable to put full weight on the affected leg.

What causes sudden paralysis in kittens?

Botulism is a rare condition that causes paralysis in cats. Botulism is caused by ingesting the botulinum toxin, which is a substance produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Most cases of botulism in cats are caused by eating dead animals or contaminated raw meat.

What does ataxia look like in cats?

The most common sign of ataxia, regardless of the cause, is an abnormal gait in which the cat is very unsteady on her feet. With a spinal cord lesion, the toes may drag on the ground as the cat walks, traumatizing the tissues of the toes.

What do you do if your cat isn’t moving?

You should seek immediate veterinary care if your cat displays signs of paralysis as this condition may lead to death or serious, permanent injury if not treated promptly by a professional. Paralysis in cats occurs when your pet is unable to control or move its legs or some other portion of the body.

Why are my cat’s hind legs weak?

Cats can also develop weak and wobbly legs due to injury/trauma or falling from a height. Diabetes, organ failure, and neurological problems can cause the gradual weakening of a cat’s rear legs. If your cat’s hind legs suddenly stopped working, this can sometimes be a sign of a blood clot, infection, or stroke.

Why is my cat moving her back legs?

Cats sometimes kick out their rear legs to engage in play behavior, such as wrestling. They will also exhibit this behavior when they are fighting or feel defensive and want the other party to leave them alone. When a cat is about to be attacked or is attacked, she will roll onto her back.

Why is my kitten not moving or eating?

If you notice your kitten has gastrointestinal symptoms, monitor her carefully for a few hours. Sometimes, the issue will resolve itself within a day. If your cat refuses to eat, can’t move or starts to have tremors, get her to a pet hospital immediately to check for poisoning.

Why is my cat not moving around much?

Cats with arthritis or other joint problems may have difficulty moving around and may no longer jump up on furniture or counters, or may change the way they jump onto higher surfaces. If your cat suddenly is unable to use its back legs, she should be seen by your veterinarian immediately.

How can I strengthen my cats back legs?

To strengthen the hind limbs, lift the abdomen so that the front legs are off the ground. This improves rear leg weight bearing/strength, range of motion, and hip extension. While sitting on a chair or couch, have your cat’s back legs on the floor and lift the front legs up on a cushion or two (placed on the ground).

What does it mean when a cats hind legs stop working?

If your cat’s hind legs suddenly stopped working, this can sometimes be a sign of a blood clot, infection, or stroke. Cats are good at hiding the fact that they’re in pain.

Is it normal for a 10 year old cat to have leg weakness?

Older cats, aged 10 or older, are the most likely to experience such problems. However, you shouldn’t brush off rear leg weakness or stiffness as just “old age.” Old age in itself is harmless, but it makes cats more prone to developing certain medical conditions.

What are the symptoms of weak and stiff back legs in cats?

Weak and stiff back legs in cats can come on suddenly, or more gradually. Symptoms that you may notice include: Toilet accidents are common when a cat can’t move its legs properly. The cat may find it difficult or painful to climb in or out of the litter box. You might also notice that your cat is more aggressive or depressed than usual.

What kind of mobility problems does a cat have?

Mobility problems in cats are obvious. Cats with wobbly or weak hind legs will have trouble walking, climbing, and jumping. Back leg stiffness is common in older cats, but it can affect younger cats and kittens. Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of back leg stiffness in cats that are aged 10+.