Limping in cats

Limping in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
DVM
Reviewed by Dr. Deborah Brown
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
4 min read

What to do

Causes

When to worry

What to look for

Diagnosis

Home treatment

Vet treatment

Risk

Other causes

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Limping in cats

Limping in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
DVM
Reviewed by Dr. Deborah Brown
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
4 min read

Limping in cats is never normal and it may be caused by a variety of reasons, some more serious than others.

Limping may be a result of muscle and ligament strain, wounds, broken bones, back problems and more. Cats are very good at hiding pain or discomfort, make sure to look for more subtle signs of discomfort. If you see your cat limping, keep them indoors until you can speak to a vet.

What to do if your cat starts limping >What to do if your cat starts limping [What to do

Common causes of lameness in cats >Common causes of lameness in cats [Causes

When should you worry about your limping cat? >When should you worry about your limping cat? [When to worry


Subtle signs of pain or discomfort in cats >
Subtle signs of pain or discomfort in cats [What to look for

How do vets diagnose causes of lameness in cats >How do vets diagnose causes of lameness in cats [Diagnosis

Home remedies for limping cats >Home remedies for limping cats [Home treatment

How do vets treat lameness in cats >How do vets treat lameness in cats [Vet treatment

Cats at higher risk for lameness >Cats at higher risk for lameness [Risk

Other causes of lameness or limping in cats >Other causes of lameness or limping in cats [Other causes

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