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Question:

Cat having tremors/spasms in back legs - mercury poisoning?

I'm really worried and could use some advice. My sweet cat, Smokey, has been acting strange lately. Over the past few days, I've noticed that his back legs are twitching or having these brief, uncontrollable spasms. It's absolutely heartbreaking to watch. I'm terrified it could be something serious like mercury poisoning because I started feeding him a new fish-based wet food, and I read somewhere that mercury can cause these symptoms. Has anyone else experienced this with their feline friend? I’m freaking out a bit here and trying not to jump to conclusions, but I don't want to wait too long if it's something that needs urgent attention. Any ideas on what might be going on or if there's something specific I should be looking out for before I make a vet appointment? Thanks so much!

Answer:

Hello there! I'm sorry to hear about your kitty's troubles. Tremors or spasms in your cat's back legs can indeed be concerning, but let's explore several potential causes together. While mercury poisoning is a possibility, it’s relatively rare in cats. Typically, these symptoms could be due to conditions such as muscle strain, a neurological issue, nutritional deficiency, or even mild hypoglycemia.



First, let's look at your cat's environment and recent diet. Has there been any potential exposure to toxic substances or human food that might contain mercury, like a lot of fish? It’s important to rule this out. If your cat's diet and environment seem normal, the cause might be muscular or neurological.



In the meantime, ensure your cat is comfortable. Provide a quiet, safe space where they feel secure and can rest. Keep them well-hydrated and observe their eating habits closely.



However, there are signs to watch for that suggest a more serious issue: worsening tremors, refusal to eat or drink, vomiting, extreme lethargy, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these, it's essential to contact a vet immediately.



For further guidance, I recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets through Dial A Vet, so we can evaluate your cat's condition more comprehensively and provide tailored advice. Take care!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 24, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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