Cat limping/not eating/change in behavior

I'm really worried about my little furball, Luna. Over the past few days, she’s been acting really off. She's usually a bundle of energy, chasing anything that moves and demanding cuddles all the time, but recently she's been limping a bit on her back leg and just doesn't seem interested in food at all, even her favorite treats. She's usually a big eater! Also, she’s been hiding under the bed a lot, which is really unlike her. I'm trying not to freak out, but I can't help but think something might be seriously wrong. Has anyone else experienced something like this with their cat? What did you do about it? I'm planning to take her to the vet, but any advice or reassurance in the meantime would really help calm my nerves.

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Answer

Hello there! I'm sorry to hear that your cat is having a tough time. Limping, not eating, and changes in behavior can certainly be concerning, so let's chat about what might be going on.



The limping could be due to an injury like a sprain or a minor fracture, or it could be something more chronic like arthritis. Sometimes, even a small thorn or foreign object stuck in their paw can cause noticeable limping.



As for not eating and behavior changes, these can be related to pain or discomfort from the limp. Cats often hide pain, so when they do show signs like these, it's a definite signal to pay attention. Stress, dental issues, or internal problems can also cause a cat to stop eating and behave differently.



At home, you can gently check their paw and leg for any obvious injuries or swelling. Encourage rest and limit their jumping or running around — keeping them calm can aid in any healing process.



Watch for signs like worsening limping, swelling, extreme lethargy, or if your cat stops eating completely for more than a day. These would indicate it's time for more immediate attention.



To put your mind at ease and get to the bottom of it, I recommend booking a video consult with a vet on Dial A Vet. Our vets are ready to help figure out what's going on and what the next steps should be!

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