Tripawds Three Legged Dog & Cat Forum Archives
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Hi all,
Our cat Stella has been having issues with her hind legs since we got her at 2 months old (she is now 7 months old). She is missing all digits on her right hind leg and one digit on her left. At first she was able to walk on all four legs without a problem, but after a while sores would develop due to the absence of digits padding the weight bearing surface on the right leg. Our vet said that either we could try and heal the injury or go for amputation. At first we tried to heal the area but she keeps shaking off the bandage even with a cone on and the wound is not getting better. The next step is amputation. I am worried that the operation and loss of a limb would change her personality; now she is a social and happy little kitty but I've heard that such intense surgeries can effect a cat's attitude. Another thing is that her left hind leg isn't too great either. She is missing a digit but also has extra bone mass there that we have yet to fully diagnose. Because of this, I'm worried she'd have to get both hind legs amputated.
I want to provide Stella with the best care for a long and happy life but am also worried about the transition she'll have to 3 legs and possibly 2.
Thanks,
Anna
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Hi Anna and Stella, welcome. You ask great questions and we are so glad you posted. Please consider registering as a member so your future posts won't need approval.
In a situation like this, I would say don't do anything until you get another opinion, preferably from an orthopedic vet who can figure out what her overall candidacy is for being a Tripawd, and also the bone mass issue.
As for how cats adapt, oh my gosh they do SO WELL! Over the years we've seen they do much much better than dogs (ssh, don't tell them I told you that!). Check out our Tripawd Cats Quality of Life Survey Results for insight, our Trikitty blogs and if you're deep into the amputation decision, our e-book, Cool Tips for Tripawd Cats is also very helpful.
Please let us know what you decide and ask whatever questions you'd like, we are here to help.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
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