Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 5/2/2009

Question
Hi Dr.
Our cat has suddenly developed an ailment. Let me start by saying that he currently has had some heart issues and is on Aspirin, Benazepril, and Atenolol. He suddenly on Monday slept in, and didn't move much all day. We took him emergency care and they said he only had a little fluid in the lungs and prescribed furosemide. We brought him home on Wednesday and since then he almost refuses to move. He won't walk even 2 feet to eat or drink. When we take food and water to him, he will eat and drink. The few times he has moved, is only a few feet and he seems to keep his butt down, never fully using his back legs. For a day, if we picked him up, he would meow in pain. We returned to the doctor. At the doctor's office, they said he seemd to be okay not limping, etc. Now tonight, he tried to walk and the back left leg was clearly limping, and then gave out. When touching the left side of him by the top of the left back leg and butt, he lets out a sqeal. What is wrong?

Answer
Ryan -

Have your cat examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. I cannot diagnose your cat's medical problem without first examining him, but with the info you have given me it seems as though your cat may have a serious ailment.  Cats with heart disease are prone to developing what is known as saddle thrombus - or a blood clot in the leg or in the thigh.  This is a very serious condition that could possibly lead to death.  

Again, because I have not examined your  cat I cannot tell you what is wrong with him; I can only suggest that he may have developed a particular condition.  Your veterinarian will be able to help you determine why your cat is uncomfortable is unable to walk.