A practical guide to tell mild from serious — but when in doubt, always ask your vet.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual
Veterinary advice recommended today — For most cases, follow the home-care steps below and call your vet the same day if warning signs appear.
Cats hide pain well. A cat holding up a paw, limping or avoiding jumps should be checked — what looks mild can be a break or an infection.
Contact your vet if any of these apply:
Keep your cat indoors and confined to one room so it cannot climb. Check the paw gently. Do not give human painkillers — they are dangerous for cats.
Your vet may examine and X-ray the leg and check for abscesses, fractures or joint disease.
Rest for a day and check the paw for cuts or objects. If the limp continues beyond 24 hours, gets worse, or your pet refuses to bear weight, see a vet.
Never give pets human painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol — they can be fatal. Only use medication prescribed by your vet.
Same symptom in Dog: see Dog Limping — causes and home care can differ by species.
This page is educational triage information, not a diagnosis. Pets vary — when in doubt, ask your vet. In an emergency, contact your local emergency clinic or pet poison hotline directly.