I'm freaking out a bit and really need some advice. I was playing with my cat, Whiskers, earlier this evening and everything seemed fine. She was chasing a string, being her usual playful self. I didn't think much about it, but when she darted past me, I accidentally stepped back and might have landed on her tail. Now Whiskers seems to be acting differently. She's hiding more, doesn't want to be touched, and I noticed her tail hanging in an odd way—almost limp near the base. I’m so worried I might have hurt her, but I'm not sure if it's broken or if she's just scared. There’s no obvious swelling or bleeding, but she clearly doesn’t want me near it. Has anyone experienced something like this before? Should I take her to the vet immediately or is there something I can do at home first to check if it's serious? Any guidance would be highly appreciated.
Thanks for your question. I'm sorry to hear about your cat’s tail! Cats' tails are quite flexible, but they can be injured or fractured. Signs of a possible break include a drooping tail, swelling, or if your cat seems uncomfortable or in pain when the tail is touched. You might also notice changes in their behavior, like hiding or decreased activity.
For at-home care, try to minimize handling of the tail to avoid further discomfort. You can apply a cold compress (wrapped in a cloth) for brief periods to help with swelling. Keeping your cat calm and restricting very active play can also be helpful.
However, be on the lookout for signs that require immediate veterinary attention, such as severe pain, a change in bladder or bowel function, signs of paralysis, or if the tail appears to have lost its normal alignment or shape. These could indicate more severe injuries that need professional care.
To ensure the best outcome and address any ongoing issues, it’s a good idea to book a video consult with a vet via Dial A Vet. They can help assess the condition and provide guidance tailored to your cat's needs.
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