Cat suddenly lost use of his back legs. Looking for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Thanks for your question. I'm really sorry to hear about your cat's situation. Sudden hind leg paralysis in cats can be alarming and might be caused by a few different issues. One common cause is a condition called aortic thromboembolism (ATE), where a blood clot blocks blood flow to the back legs. It can be linked to heart disease. Injuries, like spinal trauma, or severe infections can also lead to sudden paralysis.



At home, make sure your cat is in a comfortable environment, free of obstacles. Keep them rested and warm to reduce stress. Offer water and food close by, but avoid forcing anything if they seem uncomfortable or in pain.



Watch out for signs of severe distress such as loud vocalizations, difficulty breathing, or if your cat isn't eating, drinking, or urinating. These might point to a more serious problem requiring immediate attention.



It's important to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Getting a prompt diagnosis can significantly affect your cat's recovery and comfort. I recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets here on Dial A Vet, so we can discuss next steps and explore available treatment options.