Media – Rear Leg Disability

photo of cat sleeping

Blood Clots from Heart Disease

Question:
My poor Abby who is still a youngin at 5 years old is having severe problems walking. She is an indoor only cat and has not sustained any trauma. Her problem has been going on for 2 months. She is unable to jump and her walking has gotten progressively worse as she drags her hind legs and frequently stumbles. She does not seem to be in any pain and her temperament, eating/drinking and toileting habits have not been altered. We have tried a pain killer and prednisone and her problems are getting worse. Bloodwork has nothing out of the ordinary.

Dr. Nichol:
This is distressing; it’s certainly not the quality of life you want for Abby. With no history of injury her difficulty walking suggests that a blood clot may have lodged in the arteries that supply her back legs. This is a common result of a heart muscle disease called cardiomyopathy. Any cat can be affected but the Maine coon and Ragdoll breeds are hard hit due to a mutation in their heart muscle cells.

According to veterinary cardiologist Dr. Mark Kittleson, “While the onset of these clinical signs often appears to be acute to the owner, usually the cat has had mild tachypnea (rapid breathing) for some time prior to … actual heart failure. Coughing can occur but is rare.” Cats with a clot blocking blood flow to their rear legs usually have pain and paralysis. I have known cats like Abby with paralysis as their first sign.

Chest x-rays, an electrocardiogram, and an echocardiogram are essential to an accurate diagnosis. Back x-rays and a neurologic exam would rule-out a problem in Abby’s vertebral column. A veterinary internist should be your next stop.

Feline cardiomyopathy is a terminal disease but there are treatments that can buy a well-loved kitty more good time. While nothing can dissolve blood clots that have already formed Plavix is used to prevent new clots from occurring. Some cats have actually broken clots down on their own. Cardiac medications like atenolol plus a diuretic may be necessary. You need answers. Even with heart disease Abby could live well in your good home.

Dr. Jeff Nichol is a residency-trained veterinary behaviorist. He provides consultations in-person and in groups by Zoom (505-792-5131). Each week he shares a blog and a Facebook Live video to help bring out the best in pets and their people. Sign up at no charge at drjeffnichol.com. Post pet behavioral or physical questions on facebook.com/drjeffnichol or by US Post to 4000 Montgomery Blvd. NE, Albuq, NM 87109.