Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!Vet Tips - By Our Vets!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet ClinicGlossary
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Worried about a friend's disabled cat

Help, I need some advice. My best friend's cat, Whiskers, who I've adored for years, is struggling with a disability that affects his hind legs. She's been taking good care of him, but lately, I've noticed that Whiskers seems more withdrawn and isn't taking his food as eagerly as he used to. It breaks my heart to see him not chasing the elusive sunbeams on the living room floor as he once did. My friend is doing everything she can, but I'm wondering if there are any additional ways I can support both her and Whiskers. Are there special toys or techniques that could help keep him stimulated and happy despite his limitations? I feel so helpless watching him struggle, and I'd appreciate any tips or shared experiences from those who've been through something similar.

Answer:

Thanks for reaching out with your concern about your friend's disabled cat. When it comes to cats with disabilities, their unique needs can sometimes be a little more challenging to navigate. Various issues could arise depending on the nature of their disability.



For instance, if your friend’s cat has mobility issues, watch for any signs of sores or pressure points, especially if the cat tends to lie in one position for prolonged periods. Regularly repositioning the cat and using soft bedding can help prevent these. Also, consider how accessible the cat’s food, water, and litter box are. Placing these essentials on the same level and within easy reach will minimize stress and physical effort.



Monitor the cat’s daily habits for any changes in eating, drinking, or bathroom behaviors. An unexplained decrease in appetite, increased thirst, or unusual litter box habits can indicate underlying health issues.



Be on the lookout for any signs of pain like excessive vocalization, grooming of a specific area, or hiding more than usual. If you notice any of these concerns or if there’s a sudden change in the cat’s behavior, it’s essential to seek veterinary advice promptly.



To better address your concerns and get personalized guidance, consider booking a video consult with us here at Dial A Vet. We’re here to support you and your friend’s cat with expert advice tailored to their unique needs.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 29, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
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.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Cat A has virus. Vet says wait it out. Now cat B has virus. Follow steps for cat A??
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Any exotics vets in the house?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Elderly Cat's fine, except he's not fine?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
[DOG] Yellow vomit every 2/4 days
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support - anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicAsk A Vet: Q&AGlossary
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links