Paralyzed cat??? Result of a hit and run accident.?

Question

I picked up a cat that was run over by the side of the road and took it to the vet. When i carried it, it tried to run away from me and it was dragging one of it's hind leg. I figured it was broken. The vet said it's not fractured or broken, but might have some temp. nerve damage since he squeezed it's paw and he didn't feel it. Otherwise, the cat is fine. This is a young 4 month old cat. Has anyone experienced something similar to this where your cat was temp. or permanently paralyzed? I'd like to keep him if he turns out to be ok, but if he's going to be perm. paralyzed I'm thinking of having him put to sleep. :(

Answer 1

Putting him to sleep doesn't have to be an option - I'd wait a month (at least!) to see if it improves. If his leg will be permanently paralyzed then I'd consider having it amputated to avoid accidents (dragging his leg can lead to sores, injuries can happen if he can't feel it get hot/cold/hurt). Cats that young will adjust to having a leg amputated VERY well. I worked at a vet clinic and seen this happen a couple times. And if you don't feel like you can care for him whatever you decide to do then I'd try to have someone else adopt him. Lots of people are willing to help disabled cats!

Answer 2

Yes I had that with my dog, both back legs after she was injured. Fortunately over about a 2 month period, she regained use of them.

Answer 3

dont have him put down because of one paralized leg.  Look for a good home for him/her that will give the time to daiper the cat and take care of it.  go to youtube and look up how to change a cats diaper, theres a couple diaper cats that lead fufilling lives.  just think twice before you kill it.  That cat can still lead a wonderful life.  I would offer if i didnt have 3 cats of my own 3 feral kittens a stray and a rabbit

Answer 4

Your a great person for taking on this responsibility which wasn't your burden to bare in the first place.

The vet treating the cat will be able to help you but maybe my mother in laws story would help you.

My mother in law actually hit the cat she has now, and it had something that sounded similar but the only thing is the cats back paw was actually dead even though the cat could move the leg.  They chose to have the paw removed and "Stumpy" is a happy healthy VERY active cat.  It sounds like it's a wait and see kind of story.  But you obviously care enough not to allow the cat to suffer...

Answer 5

I agree with shekilledhim.  I have worked in the field for over 25 years and these cats are amazing.  They adjust to 3 legs as if they were born that way.  But if you can care for it and give it enough time - and it could be several months - it just may surprise you.

Good for you!!!  :)