How to help a paralyzed cat with hind leg spasms and muscle pain?

I would take him to a rehabilitation veterinarian who can do acupuncture also. I see many paralyzed animals that recover with neurological retraining exercises, laser, hydrotherapy and acupuncture. The sooner he receives treatment the better the outcome. Even if he doesn’t get 100% better many animals can still live a happy life with proper care from the owners. Please take him in soon to give him a chance. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Reg.

I would be concerned about a significant spinal or pelvic injury with bruising and damage to the bladder. Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections and are not an appropriate treatment option in this case. Full veterinary assessment of the extent of all of her injuries are required in order to assess the likelihood of recovery from paraysis, alongside appropriate pain relief, antibiotics should only ever be used where a bacterial infection is diagnosed

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Jackie. Anything is worth trying including what you mentioned and acupuncture or chiropractic medicine. Alternative medical modalities are always worth trying. Not sure if cold laser therapy would help but that is another avenue to explore. I would advise reaching out to vets in your area for these alternative treatments. Good luck with Jackie.

I hate to hear that about Blaire. I am concerned that you mention extreme pain. While cruciate ligament tears are painful, most cats limp and are somewhat uncomfortable but are generally not described as being in extreme pain. I do not have any more information about Blaire so I will discuss some general things. Things that do cause extreme pain are blood clots blocking the blood flow to one or multiple legs. A urethral blockage will also cause extreme pain. Both of these conditions are emergencies and can be fatal if left untreated. That being said, other things can cause extreme pain as well. Each pet also has varying degrees of pain tolerance and some are more stoic thank others. If Blaire is really uncomfortable, I would recommend to have Blaire examined by a veterinarian asap to make sure there is nothing more sinister happening. Cats do not tolerate human pain medications so there’s nothing safe over the counter to give him that would be effective. The veterinarian may be able to give Blaine pain killers to make him hurt less and that are less likely to damage his organs. For a knee injury in general, gentle massage, a cool compress (not too cold) and keep Blaine from walking around or jumping tend to make them feel better. Omega 3 Fatty acid supplements also help to naturally decrease inflammation and they could help as well. I do hope this helps and I hope he feels better quickly!

You can keep him clean and comfortable and see if the control of his rear legs will return. He may be permanently paralyzed though. I like to support these animals, putting something underneath their stomach if needed, to get them standing with their rear legs underneath in a normal position. If he gets stronger when you have him standing he may improve. Usually they will start to move their legs in a few weeks if they are going to improve. If he remains paralyzed you can purchase or make a cart or wheelchair for him so he can walk around on his own. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for this kitten.

Hello Bobby. I am sorry that Becky is so sick. From your description I would be worried about a few possible causes. If the problem started as a wound from the leg, I would be very concerned about an infection that is spreading. Also, cats can get blood clots that stop the blood flow to the back legs, so if the paralysis is just in the back legs this could be the cause as well. If this is a 'nerve problem', and it is spreading, then it isn't typical of nerve disease. I would be very worried about Becky's chances at survival based on what you are describing. I would talk to your vet about infections and if that seems to be the cause, and pursue bloodwork. You can test for blood flow to the back legs by checking the glucose in the front legs vs. the back legs, and also feel if the back legs are cold to the touch. If they are cold and if the glucose in the back legs is less than that of the front legs, then likely a blood clot to the back legs is present, and you should seriously consider euthanasia as it is a very painful and untreatable condition. If the legs are warm and there is good blood flow, and no infection seems to be present, and Becky seems happy and comfortable otherwise (eating/drinking, no crying, not painful), you can try acupuncture however there aren't good scientific studies about the efficacy of this. I would suggest massaging and frequent range of motion of the back legs, and seeing if return of function occurs. Also, nursing care to ensure Becky is able to urinate and defecate is very important. This is very complicated and without intensive care I worry for Becky's quality of life. You should re-assess with your veterinarian and discuss these options.

I am sorry but we at Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach are unable to prescribe or recommended medications, this can only be done by your treating vet who knows and has recently examined your pets. Rest and confinement will help prevent further injury but I strongly recommend a full physical exam to determine the type of injury and the options to manage it and reduce pain