What Causes Dead Tail in Cats?

Dead tail in cats refers to a tail that no longer functions. Also known as limp tail, the condition may result from trauma or neurological problems. If your cat's tail appears injured in any way, take him to the veterinarian at once. Depending on the cause and level of damage, prompt attention may restore the tail to usefulness and allow the cat to function normally.

  1. The Tail

    • A cat's tail indicates mood, helps him balance when climbing and creates warmth when wrapped around his body. The tail head is the area where the tail connects to the body. Although it appears that the tail head connects to the spinal cord, this is an inaccurate but common misconception. Cats usually adjust well to the loss of the tail through amputation, if nerves are not involved.

    Dead Tail Causes

    • Cats that stay outside are in danger of coming into contact with motor vehicles, causing injury. In fact, one common injury is caused by a car running over a cat's tail, according to MedicineNet.com. Keeping cats indoors is the best way to avoid this type of injury, but even house cats suffer tail injuries. Trauma might occur if the cat's tail is shut in a door, a heavy object strikes the cat or he is attacked by a dog or other predator. Neurological and spinal cord issues can cause dead tail, as can infections or abscesses.

    Signs and Symptoms

    • Though the most obvious sign is a broken or damaged tail, other signs also may indicate dead tail. The cat may experience involuntary bowel movements or loss of urine. He may have difficulty walking, with the rear legs appearing uncoordinated, and may react with pain if the tail or tailhead is touched. If the cat holds his tail at an odd angle or drags it, suspect damage and contact the veterinarian.

    Treatment

    • Dead tail treatment depends on the cause, but whether you know the cause or not, cats exhibiting these signs should be taken to your vet or an emergency veterinary hospital at once. The veterinarian will use X-rays to determine the extent of the injury and the possible cause, if unknown. Bladder paralysis may remain a permanent condition if not treated immediately, even if the nerves eventually start functioning again. Such cats need manual emptying of the bladder until nerves heal. As the owner, you may have to make a decision about treatment, depending on the pet's prognosis. In some cases, cats will never regain the ability to eliminate normally after suffering from dead tail.