Shoulder limp

[ClareB83]

My cat is 9 years old. Outside cat. Hit by a car when 4 years old, but recovered well, and has a little bit of arthritis.

Over the last couple of days he's developed a limp as he seems unhappy to put weight on his front right shoulder.

I'm a bit torn about going straight to the vet.

On the one hand I generally think you should go straight to the vet for a diagnosis.

On the other there's no wound/infection to treat and if he just needs rest because he's sprained it we can do this at home. Plus he's about to go into the cattery for a week which will force him to rest. Also I'm a bit worried they'll want to put him under general anaesthetic for x rays, which is always risky and I don't think he's broken anything as he lets me inspect the leg.

What do you think?

I personally would get him checked out especially as he's going into a cattery. If nothing else, they can physically examine him and hers give a painkiller. I'd rather have control of any tests/treatment rather than risk problems while I'm away - also, you could be leaving him in pain and cattery might not pick up on this.

I'd go to the vet and get him checked.

Yes I think you're right esp on painkillers. I'll get an appointment.

Just to update - cat refused to limp in front of the vet, but was inspected and vet concluded no breaks or anything serious. Prescribed some painkiller.

Continues to limp at home 😼

Mines done the same, I had to carry him around the house. At the vets he stood on his hind legs.

He'll feel better after a few days of pain relief.