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Cat Back Pain

Veterinarian Reviewed on June 22, 2012 by Dr. Janice Huntingford

Cat Back Pain

Signs and Symptoms

You notice when something is wrong with your cat. He may start walking strange or be hesitant to jump up or down. He may even meow more than usual or seem to lack his usual energy and have Cat Lethargy. As a cat owner, you know when your cat is experiencing back pain and you probably want to know what you should do and how you can help him to feel better.

Reasons for Back Pain

There are many things that can cause back pain in cats. Back pain can be a symptom of a larger problem or signify an issue in the back or spine. Back pain may be caused by an epaxial muscle disease, which includes tissue injuries, wounds or infections. It can also be caused by problems with the disks in the spine or other spinal trauma. Back pain can also be due to Cat Cancer or problems with the membranes. Pain in the back can also be pain coming from somewhere else, like the kidney or the stomach, and not really be a back problem at all.

Diagnosing

You may notice that something is wrong with your cat, but it can be very difficult for you or even your vet to determine exactly what is wrong. Your cat can’t tell you where she hurts, so it is your job to do your best to watch for signs that she is having back pain. Some things that may happen if your cat is having back pain include posture changes, arching of the back, a stiff neck, inability to move in certain ways, bumps or swelling, difficulties walking and crying.

If you know that your cat has been involved in an accident or has otherwise been hurt then you should not wait for signs that something is wrong. Cat Broken Bones and internal injuries can become very severe and sometimes fatal if they are not treated right away.

If there has not been an accident, but you notice something wrong with your cat then you should get her to see the vet right away. Your vet will run tests to determine exactly what is wrong and to make sure that the pain is in the back and not in the surrounding areas of the body. The vet will do a physical exam, blood tests, x rays and other tests to pinpoint what is wrong.

Treatment

Treatment really depends on the reason for your cat’s back pain. If it is determined that the pain is really an injury or issue with the back then you will probably be able to very little for your cat at home. Your vet may tell you to keep your cat quiet and let him rest as much as possible. Treatments may include surgery, medication or hospital care.

When you know your pet is in pain, you want to do anything and everything you can to help him. It is not always easy to clear up back pain. If back pain is a sign of a larger and more serious problem then you really can only work with your vet to find the best possible course of treatment. Besides doing everything you can in conjunction with your vet, all you really can do is give your cat love and attention to let him know that you care.

Read also: Cat Increased Appetite
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Our Expert

Dr. Janice Huntingford
Janice Huntingford, DVM, has been in veterinary practice for over 30 years and has founded two veterinary clinics since receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. She has studied extensively in both conventional and holistic modalities. Ask Dr. Jan

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