What to do if a cat dislocated its paw? - briefly
If you suspect your cat has dislocated its paw, immediately contact your veterinarian for guidance and promptly schedule an appointment. Do not attempt to manipulate or realign the paw yourself as it may cause further injury.
What to do if a cat dislocated its paw? - in detail
If you suspect your cat has dislocated its paw, it's crucial to act promptly and with care. Here are the steps you should follow:
First, assess the situation calmly. A dislocated paw may be evident by swelling, pain, or an abnormal position of the paw. Cats are known for hiding their pain, so any sign of discomfort should be taken seriously.
Next, safely contain your cat to prevent further injury. Gently wrap it in a blanket if necessary, and place it in a carrier or a quiet room. This will also help reduce stress, which can exacerbate the condition.
Do not attempt to manipulate the paw yourself. While it might seem like the right thing to do, you could cause further damage or pain. Instead, contact your veterinarian immediately. If it's after hours, look for an emergency vet clinic in your area.
When speaking with the vet, provide as much detail as possible about what happened and how your cat is behaving. This information can help the vet determine the best course of action. They might advise you to keep the cat quiet and comfortable until you can bring it in.
On your way to the vet, support the affected paw with a soft cloth or towel to prevent it from moving around too much. Be gentle and avoid putting any pressure on the paw.
At the vet clinic, they will likely take X-rays to confirm the dislocation and assess the extent of the injury. Depending on the severity, the vet may attempt to manually reposition the bone (reduction) under sedation or anesthesia. In some cases, surgery might be necessary.
After treatment, your cat will likely need to wear a splint or cast for several weeks to keep the paw immobile and allow it to heal properly. You'll also need to monitor your cat closely for signs of infection or further complications.
Throughout this process, it's important to follow your vet's instructions carefully and provide a quiet, comfortable environment for your cat to recover in. With proper care and attention, your cat should be able to make a full recovery from a dislocated paw.