Tripod Cat Help. My Cat Just Had Back Leg Amputated

[Mercurial123]

I started a post about my 17 year old cat a few months ago. She was lame due to arthritis and has kidney disease and thyroid issues, which are under control. The vet advised that putting her to sleep was the best option as she was in so much pain. Amazingly, she rebounded and was doing well with new meds. Unfortunately, in the last two weeks, she was in pain and getting sores on her lame leg.

She had amputation two days ago and is doing remarkably well. She's coming home on Tuesday.

I've put her favourite bed on the floor and will have food and water close by. I already have a litter box adapted for tripod cats, and she's taking Umove joint supplements for senior cats. Is there anything else I should be doing?

I think you've done everything you can. I had a 'tripod' cat, but he was injured at only six months old so was much younger and more flexible, she may find it harder to adapt as she already has joint problems. However it's amazing how they seem to manage on only three legs, the only thing they can't do is scratch their head on that side. I hope she is pain-free and continues to do well.

I have no direct experience but my school growing up had a tripod cat and it didn't seem to hold him back in the slightest.

It sounds like you've done everything you can - she may find it harder than a younger cat due to her age/health but I'm sure she'll be fine. Cats are remarkably resilient and adaptable!

Thanks. I'm hoping she's more like her old self when she comes home. I visited her yesterday and she was doing really well. She's currently working out how to move around on three legs. Hopefully, that won't be too difficult as she hasn't been using her back leg for the last three months.