Expert: Jessica - 8/15/2009

Question
Hello, I live on a small island in Greece and look after many cats without real veterinary help as the nearest vet is 2 hours drive away and mainly deals with farm animals rather than pets.
I have a kitten, 5 months old but fairly small who started having breathing problems, a friend of mine with some veterinary knowledge gave her an injection in her left hind quarter to ease her breathing which has helped her breathing however since the injection she is unable to walk properly and I am growing increasing worried about nerve damage. She can move the leg a little but can not lift it fully and when she walks the leg drags with the toes curled under. Is there anything I can do? Will massaging the leg help at all or is she doomed to walk like this forever? What can I do without having to see a vet?
I would be forever grateful for any help or advice.
Thanks so much!
Hannah (and Poppy - the kitten)

Answer
Hi Hannah.  I think you are right to be concerned about nerve damage, as the sciatic nerve runs down in this area and can be damaged by a needle.  A massage can help with muscle spasms, but time is the only thing that can help with nerve damage.  The body does have an amazing ability to heal itself, however, and you may be surprised to see slow improvement over time.  I'm not sure how long it's been since the injection, but most vets advise to give nerve damage about 3-6 weeks before you begin to see some improvement.  If you don't see improvement after this time, chances are smaller that she will fully recover.  Nevertheless, if she continues to have feeling in the leg, there may be no need to amputate it.  Whether amputation is necessary or not, most cats have a fine quality of life with the use of three legs provided the have protection from predators.  I hope she recovers!

Best wishes,
Jessica