Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello,

I have a couple of questions about my cat, Rascal. Rascal is currently twelve years old, and he's been having some trouble balancing himself when he stands up, some light limping, and he meows if you pick him up and by accident squish his back legs. Some of his problems we assume to be caused by arthreitis, but my dad noticed that his claws, in his back feet [the front paws are de-clawed] are not really retracting, they're staying in view- and we're wondering if maybe he's having pains in his feet due to the length of his claws. If this is the case- what can be done to shorten the claws without hurting him? Any ideas about my kitty?
Any suggestions for what to do with a cat whose got arthreitis in his back legs and/or hips? Medicine or Massaging techniques?

Thanks everybody very much.

- Sincerely,
Lauren Fitzgerald & Family

Many times older cats cannot seem to retract their claws. This may be due to lack of muscle tone that comes with aging.

Good luck!
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Smile, it will make them wonder what you are up to!

I would definitely opt for a vet visit. You think it might be arthritis, but you can't be sure. It might be something else. A vet might be able to help him lead a painless life. Don't take that chance away from him.

Cats over the age of 7 should anyway have a blood count done on a yearly basis to ensure proper organ functioning and catch anything that is bound to turn up in old age soon enough to be able to treat it.

Thank you MadamAlto for your reply. The folks and I had Rascal's nails clipped, now we're going to schedule a vet appointment to figure out more regarding what his internal problems might be in his feet.

Any other replies would be greatly welcomed.

- Lauren