How to Keep a Cat With a Broken Leg From Jumping

A cat with a broken leg needs immediate veterinary care to ensure the break is evaluated and repaired, and that subsequent infection does not develop. Depending on the type of break, a vet may choose to repair the injury with an internal fixation, in which surgical pins or rods are inserted into the inside of the bone to repair the damage, or an external fixation approach using a splint, cast or other immobilizing medical wrap. Keeping a cat from jumping or putting weight on the broken leg before and after treatment is a key element of proper healing.

  1. Immobilizing After the Break

    • A cat with a newly broken leg is likely to be frightened and in pain, and a natural inclination may be to run or jump to get away from the cause of its injury. To protect yourself and the cat, wrap the cat from behind in a thick blanket or towel, swaddling the broken limb without applying too much pressure. Hold the cat firmly next to your body to maintain the immobilization and speak in a reassuring tone to calm the animal. Transport the cat to a vet in this manner as soon as possible.

    Sedation

    • A cat with a broken leg will likely be sedated during the medical repair process and still will be groggy after its return home. If the cat has a serious or complex fracture or break, your vet may recommend ongoing administration of a sedative to keep the cat immobile during early recovery. Sedation should be given only under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian.

    Bare Rooms

    • A cat recovering from a broken leg should be given its own quiet space in which to recuperate. This space should be free of furniture, play structures or objects the cat may try to jump on. Curtains should be removed from windows and windowsills should be blocked with sturdy cardboard coverings. Provide your cat with soft bedding, a clean, low-lipped litter box, and access to food and water as directed by your vet.

    Crating

    • If creating a bare room is not possible, consider crating your cat during its early stages of recovery. Limiting the space in which the cat can move will eliminate the urge to jump. The crate should be just large enough to accommodate bedding comfortably, as well as a small litter box, and food and water dishes.

    Limit Playtime and Stimuli

    • Cats are most prone to running and jumping during play time with their human companions or with other household pets. Limit interaction with other animals during the early healing stages and avoid play that encourages chasing, leaping or jumping.

    Follow Post-Op Instructions

    • The type of leg break your cat sustained, paired with its treatment method and age, all will factor into how long a cat̵7;s broken leg should be immobilized. Your vet can give you a timeline for when your cat can resume its normal jumping activities.