- Dr. Katie Freeman
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Cats are agile creatures, adept at landing on their feet and slipping out of tight spots. They commonly use their tails to help keep them centered and balanced when moving around. However, as nimble as they are, they’re not immune to injuries.
At VEG ER for Pets emergency animial hospital, our aim is to educate cat owners on recognizing these signs and to stress the importance of seeking immediate veterinary care.
Can a cat break its tail?
Yes, one of the more common injuries our feline friends might sustain is a broken tail. Recognizing the signs early on can make a significant difference in your cat’s recovery and comfort.
At VEG ER for Pets, our aim is to educate cat owners on recognizing these signs and to stress the importance of seeking immediate veterinary care.
Common causes of tail injuries in cats
While cats are skilled animals, accidents can still happen. Here are some typical scenarios that could result in a tail injury:
Caught in a door or window: This is a common cause, especially for indoor cats.
Accidentally stepped on: In crowded spaces, a cat’s tail can get underfoot.
Fights with other animals: Aggressive encounters can lead to various injuries, including tail injuries.
Falling from a height: Although cats often land on their feet, their tails might not always be so lucky.
Signs your cat might have a broken tail
If you suspect your cat may have injured or broken its tail, you can look for certain telltale signs. Bringing your cat to our VEG emergency cat hospital is the best and quickest way to get help for your kitty.
Observe your cat for signs of a broken tail
Limp or immobile cat tail
The most obvious sign is if the tail appears limp or doesn’t move as it usually does.
Tail is swollen or has a visible deformity
This is a strong indicator of a possible fracture or dislocation.
Cat shows signs of pain when tail is touched
If your cat is in pain or aggression when its tail is touched, it could be due to a tail injury.
Cat having dfficulty urinating or defecating
The tail plays a role in your cat’s ability to urinate or defecate. If they’re struggling, the tail could be the issue.
Behavioral changes in your cat
A cat in pain might hide, avoid social interactions, or be less active than usual. Remember, every cat is different, and some might not show overt signs of pain or discomfort. It’s always best to trust your instincts and seek a professional opinion if you’re concerned.
What does a broken cat tail look like?
A broken cat’s tail that’s been injured may look limp or droop in an unusual way, sometimes with swelling, bruising, or a noticeable bend. Look for these behaviors in your cat:
Cat seems uncomfortable
Cat is hiding more than usual
Cat reacts when the tail is touched
These are not all of the signs but common behaviors that a cat with a broken tail may exhibit. In more serious cases, tail injuries can affect the nerves that help control urination or bowel movements, which is a sign your cat needs to be seen by an emergency veterinarian right away.
Broken cat tail? When to seek emergency vet care
When it comes to potential injuries, especially something as significant as a broken tail, home remedies or waiting it out aren’t options. Here’s why seeking emergency veterinary care is essential:
Accurate diagnosis for your cat
A vet can confirm whether the tail is indeed broken or if the injury is of a different nature. A lot of time an X-ray (radiograph) will be warranted to fully assess the damage.
Pain management for cat with broken tail
Cats are experts at hiding their pain, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t suffering. Your primary care vet can provide appropriate pain relief for your kitty.
Contact VEG if you think your cat's tail is broken
As a cat owner, you want the best for your beloved feline companion. Keeping an eye out for any unusual behavior or signs of injury is part of responsible pet ownership.
At VEG ER for Pets we treat medical emergencies for cats and all pets. Our dedicated team is well-equipped to diagnose and treat such injuries, ensuring your furry friend is on the path to recovery in no time.
