Expert: Jessica - 1/5/2012

Question
We recently took over the care of 2 kittens[approximate 4mos old]due to an incident where one of the little ones had apparently fallen and hurt its back upper leg. We have had them for about a week and a half now so it was almost three weeks ago that this kitten was injured. We couldn't take the baby to the vet due to limited finances[we just paid a large vet bill a month ago due to a skin condition on our dog and we have 2 cats of our own as well] and also because he seemed to be doing a little better after a couple days. But now he is back to barely putting any pressure on it and he seems very sad or depressed. Do you have any advice on whether we should be wrapping or bracing his leg and if so,how should we go about it? I really love these little guys and the last thing I want is for them to have to go through any more hardship but we just can't afford another bill right now. Please tell me how to care for this little one and help him through this rough time. He doesn't seem to be experiencing alot of pain but looks can be deceiving and who am I to say! Any information or tips you could give me would be deeply appreciated and thank you for your time on this matter. sincerely

Answer
Hi Christine,

It’s inadvisable to wrap or splint a leg unless a vet has confirmed exactly what is wrong. Generally, this is only required if there is a serious open wound or a fracture or dislocation. Outside of these circumstances, wrapping often worsens the situation. Most limping is caused by a minor sprain, and wrapping can actually increase inflammation and delay healing. The best thing for these types of injuries is rest. For active kittens, a cage might be required to enforce this. If the pain appears minimal, try to enforce rest for at least two weeks. A more serious limp may require cage rest for 6 weeks or longer.

Unfortunately, there is a chance he has fractured something or torn ligaments or tendons. If not treated, these will heal on their own, although not always properly. The kitten will most likely learn to compensate for it, however, and function with it. In these cases, longer recuperation will be needed, and early arthritis is a concern.

There are also viruses that can cause soreness, most notably calici virus. One strain causes extreme muscle soreness and lameness for up to a couple of weeks. Most kittens recover fine once the virus passes and do not require any special treatment, although dehydration is a concern for those who suffer high fever or lose appetite.

So without a vet’s oversight, the best you can do is just watch the little one and encourage rest, as well as proper water and food intake. Any time it seems like he’s sore, be sure he is extra calm for the next several days. If his recovery seems to take many weeks, I would encourage you to keep him on a glucosamine/chondroitin supplement for life, to prevent arthritis, just in case he had suffered a fracture. This is because improper healing of a fracture can lead to abnormal wear on the joints. My favorite supplement is Zuke’s Hip Action treats for cats, but there are many others.

Best of luck!
Jessica