Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Good Afternoon,
My 10yr old cat Elsa just had her back leg removed on Saturday. I feel so nervous
and uneasy every minute because I don't know if I'm doing all the right things.
I have been keeping her in a play pen but when I tried to let her walk in the house
she did ok until she tried to run and she collapsed. Any advise on the first week
after surgery would be appreciated.
Offline
Christie and Elsa, welcome. Please consider registering so your future posts won't need approval.
Why did Elsa lose her leg? Keep in mind that it hasn't been quite a week, so you shouldn't expect too much at this point. Try to imagine where you would be if you were in her paws. Probably not trying to run 😉
If there's any way you can confine her to a room in your house that would be ideal. Usually Tripawds try to do too much the first few days and it really takes a toll. Once they build up stamina getting around is easier but it's still so soon. Is she on any pain medication? Definitely want to make sure she's on some, talk to your vet if not. Also, if your floors are not covered with rugs, be sure to add some traction so she doesn't slip around. And my biggest advice: breathe. You are doing GREAT. Stay pawsitive and calm and in a few weeks you'll wonder why you were so worried.
Be sure to check out our list of Tripawd Cat bloggers, you'll be amazed and inspired!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
jerry said
Christie and Elsa, welcome. Please consider registering so your future posts won't need approval.Why did Elsa lose her leg? Keep in mind that it hasn't been quite a week, so you shouldn't expect too much at this point. Try to imagine where you would be if you were in her paws. Probably not trying to run 😉
If there's any way you can confine her to a room in your house that would be ideal. Usually Tripawds try to do too much the first few days and it really takes a toll. Once they build up stamina getting around is easier but it's still so soon. Is she on any pain medication? Definitely want to make sure she's on some, talk to your vet if not. Also, if your floors are not covered with rugs, be sure to add some traction so she doesn't slip around. And my biggest advice: breathe. You are doing GREAT. Stay pawsitive and calm and in a few weeks you'll wonder why you were so worried.
Be sure to check out our list of Tripawd Cat bloggers, you'll be amazed and inspired!
Hi Jerry,
Thanks for the response. I tried registering then it says my info is incorrect. I will try again. She stays in the playpen
the whole time. The doc said she could come out if I was with her but after that happened she hasn't came out of the playpen. especially bc I have tile all through my house. She finished her last dose of pain meds last night and they want her to try to come off them now.
Christie said
I tried registering then it says my info is incorrect....
FYI: You did register. Your username is christie78.
You can also log in using the email address you used to register. Please note that your username and password are Case Sensitive. Multiple failed login attempts can get you blocked, so be sure to click the "Remember Password" link if you forget!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Hi Christie and Elsa.....kitty Mona's mom a d other kitty leople will chime in to help you out.
I just wanted to welcome you and let you know you are not alone. The first couple lf weeks can be rough. It is major surgery, plus trying to adapt to three legs, using new muscles, dealing with pain, etc. Most kitties need pain meds for at least a week.
As Jerry mentioned, scztter rugs would help with traction and confidence.
This is usually far more stressful for the humans that our cats and dogs. Try not to worry. I know, easier said than done. But soon Elsa will be back to being Elsa!
Hang in there! Stay connected! We understand like no others can. It does get better!
Hugs!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
Hi Christa
I'm sure you are doing a great job with Elsa. Cats are very resilient and they figure it out through trial and error. I'm sure Elsa will adapt as she recovers and gets stronger. My kitty Mona had her front leg amputated and she would go from squirming around the floor like a worm to racing around the house. She did a lot of face plants but over time has managed really well.
Keep encouraging your cat to come out of the play pen every day. What does she enjoy doing? Mona likes to sleep in the sun and to look out the window so I gave her some time at the window while she was on my lap.
Front leg amputees can easily jump up but need boxes or steps to come down. Those with rear leg amputations need stairs/boxes to climb up.
If you think she's still in pain then let the vet know. I'd love to see a photo of her!
Kerren and Tripawd Kitty Mona
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