Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
Tripawds is your home to learn how to care for a three legged dog or cat, with answers about dog leg amputation, and cat amputation recovery from many years of member experiences.
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My 11-year-old cat, Mr Big, had his back leg amputated in December, after being diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma. The vet did ultrasound and x-ray before we decided to amputate, to make sure that the cancer was only in his leg. The surgery was successful and after very stressful first two weeks (which included Mr Big somehow ripping his stitches off and a visit to vet emergency room on Christmas Day), our kitty seemed to be doing very well. He was very sociable, got his appetite back, was even interested in playing with his toys and going outside (supervised). He does have some problems occasionally with getting up, almost like he was trying to use his amputated leg. From what I've read on this forum it's not uncommon and should disappear with time. I am concerned, however, because just recently he seems to be eating less than before the surgery. He now leaves the food in his bowl, he never used to do it before (his name, Mr Big, is because he is indeed a big cat). He spent one day in hiding and now I noticed a lump underneath his wound. He does not like me touching it, seems it hurts him. Of course my first scary thought was that the cancer is back, but then I tried to remember that his original basal cell carcinoma did not appear as lumps, but as never-healing sores on his leg. Could the lump be simply caused by scar tissue? Of course I'm going to call the vet, but wanted to hear what you think as well.
Mr. Big you are amazing! At eleven years young you are rockin the Tripawd life! I'm sorry you've got your human worried though. I'll try to answer the questions:
A lump is most likely scar tissue forming (happens often) but to be safe let your vet know. As for his behavior, I'm wondering if perhaps he's in pain? Lack of appetite is one of the signals (see this article for more info). It's probably not related to the lump / scar tissue but better to be safe. Maybe his extra weight is making it a little more difficult to get around as he goes out on his own more. He's working harder, which can be very tiring. If he needs to lose any weight that would really help him be lighter on his feet. Regardless though, do talk to your vet and let us know the outcome.
And welcome! It's good to have another TriCat member here. Thanks for joining.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Hi Mr. Big! Just wanted to welcome you! It sounds like you've been doing very well, especially this early on.
Jerry gave good advice as always. It does sound like he coukd be having a little pain, perhaps from overdoing it, a strained muscle, sore back, etc. The surgery site itself sounds painful.
Yeah, get him checked out and please update us when you can! And we would LOVE to see pictures of Mr. Big!!
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!
OK cool, keep us posted!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Hi and welcome! Mr. Big sounds totally awesome! I don't know what the lump could be - I'm sure you'll be off to the vet to check. My cat began eating less after having a good appetite post surgery too. He has gradually been getting back to eating his usual amount. I know he expends more energy now only having three legs to get around. My cat has good days and some less than good. Yesterday he was absolutely TEARING around the house - up and down stairs, speeding around corners, up and down off and on beds. Today he is resting most of the morning so far.
Good luck at the vet - hope the lump isn't anything major. Would love to see a pic!
Hattie & Jerry
Hugs,
Hattie and Jerry Cat (right front leg and scapula amputation due to chondrosarcoma at age 14, lived 2 1/2 years post amputation, succumbed suddenly to suspected lymphoma at age 16)
10/2001 - 10/9/2017 R.I.P ~ Love you always
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