Cats are known for their agility and grace, so it’s concerning when they show signs of limping or mobility issues. At The Hometown Veterinarian, we provide advanced orthopedic care and compassionate pain management to diagnose and treat the underlying causes of your cat’s discomfort, helping them regain their mobility and quality of life.
Common Causes of Limping in Cats
Limping or difficulty moving in cats can result from a variety of conditions, including:
- Fractures: Often caused by accidents or falls, broken bones require prompt care to heal properly.
- Ligament Injuries: Damage to ligaments can lead to instability and pain in the joints.
- Joint Disease: Conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia can affect mobility, especially in older cats.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, or muscle injuries are common in active cats.
- Infections or Abscesses: Wounds from bites or injuries can cause swelling, pain, and difficulty walking.
- Paw Pad Injuries: Cuts, burns, or foreign objects stuck in the paw can make walking painful.
If your cat is limping or struggling to move comfortably, a prompt evaluation is crucial to determine the cause and begin appropriate treatment.
Signs Your Cat May Be in Pain
Cats often hide their discomfort, but you might notice these signs of pain or mobility issues:
- Limping or favoring one leg
- Reluctance to jump, climb, or use stairs
- Difficulty getting up or lying down
- Swelling or visible injury on a leg or paw
- Hiding, decreased activity, or changes in behavior
If you observe any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek veterinary care.
Our Approach to Limping and Mobility Issues in Cats
At The Hometown Veterinarian, we take a personalized and thorough approach to addressing your cat’s limping or mobility challenges.
- Accurate Diagnosis: Using digital X-rays and other diagnostic tools, we assess your cat’s condition to pinpoint the underlying issue.
- Customized Treatment Plan: Based on the diagnosis, we create a tailored plan to restore your cat’s mobility and reduce pain.
- Orthopedic Surgery: For conditions like fractures or severe joint issues, we offer advanced surgical options, including:
- Locking bone plates for stable fracture repair
- Surgical joint stabilization for ligament injuries
- Other corrective procedures to address deformities or damage
- Compassionate Pain Management: Our feline-specific pain relief options include:
- Safe medications tailored to cats’ unique needs
- Therapy laser treatments to reduce inflammation and promote healing
- Acupuncture for a natural approach to pain relief and mobility support
Preventing Mobility Issues in Cats
While some injuries or conditions are unavoidable, you can take steps to reduce the risk of mobility problems:
- Provide safe climbing and perching areas to prevent falls.
- Keep your cat indoors or in secure enclosures to avoid accidents.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on joints.
- Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor joint health, especially in senior cats.
Why Choose The Hometown Veterinarian for Your Cat’s Care?
At The Hometown Veterinarian, we combine advanced medical expertise with a compassionate approach to ensure your cat receives the best care possible.
Part of The Hometown Veterinarian Difference includes:
- Feline-Focused Expertise: We understand the unique needs of cats and tailor our care to their anatomy, physiology, and behavior.
- Advanced Surgical Techniques: Our team is skilled in cutting-edge orthopedic procedures to restore mobility and comfort.
- Comprehensive Support: From diagnosis to recovery, we’re with you every step of the way, providing guidance and reassurance.
Your cat’s comfort and well-being are always our top priorities.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If your cat is limping or showing signs of mobility issues, don’t wait. Call us at 641-758-3333 or Request an Appointment to ensure they receive the expert care they need. Together, we’ll help your feline friend move comfortably again.