How to Deal With a Paralyzed Cat

If your cat suddenly experiences loss of movement in his legs, you could have a life threatening emergency on your hands. Loss of movement in his rear legs can be a sign of a broken back or pelvis, or of heart disease. In either case it is important to get the cat to the vet as quickly as possible.

Instructions

1. Wrap the cat in a towel or blanket before getting too close to her if she is lashing out and trying to scratch. When a cat is in pain she might become aggressive, even towards her owner. If you cannot get close enough to safely wrap the cat, toss a blanket over the cat's entire body and then wrap her.

2. Slide the cat onto a board to prevent movement while transporting to the vet. It is important to move the cat as little as possible to avoid causing further injury.

3. Take a second blanket or towel and wrap the cat and the board to help keep the cat stable on the board and prevent her from falling off when being moved.

4. Keep the cat warm on the way to the animal hospital or vet's office. Use a hot water bottle if you have one. If you do not have a hot water bottle you can fill a sock with dry rice, tie the end and heat it in the microwave for a couple of minutes.

5. Avoid giving the cat any food or water because he might require emergency surgery.

6. Get the cat to the vet as quickly as possible.

Tips & Warnings

• If the cat's legs appear misshapen, the loss of movement could also be caused by broken legs.