How to Make a Brace for a Cat 's Leg

Despite being known as graceful creatures that always land on their feet, cats do sometimes get into trouble and break a bone. If your cat has a broken leg, it is important to know the steps you should take to help your pet. If your cat breaks a bone, a brace or splint should only be used to stabilize an injury before seeking veterinary attention. Any injury to your feline friend should always be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Things You'll Need

  • Towel
  • Thick gloves
  • Saline solution
  • Gauze
  • 2 straight, sturdy objects like sticks, boards, or rolled-up newspapers
  • Tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the extent of your cat's injury. Signs that your cat may have broken a leg include a leg that is hanging limply. Your cat may also appear to be unable to put weight on a certain leg, and will limp as a result. In some cases, there may also be some degree of swelling. Sometimes, injured cats will hide in order to protect themselves, but you should make sure to find your cat and check it for signs of shock, which include pale gums and a quick, weak heartbeat. If you see these signs, wrap your cat in a blanket or towel and immediately head to a veterinarian.

    • 2

      Approach an injured cat with caution. An injury like a broken leg can make even the friendliest cat nervous and sometimes hostile. If the cat does appear aggressive, try wrapping its body in a towel, leaving the injured leg outside. Hold its body tight and close against your chest. The key to working with an aggressive or frightened cat is to use as little force as possible to prevent further irritation. If you have a pair of thick gloves handy, wear those as well. Have someone without gloves prepare the leg brace materials.

    • 3

      Rinse the wound gently with saline solution and remove any debris using gauze if your cat has an open fracture. Cover the wound with gauze before applying the brace materials.

    • 4

      Place two objects, such as sticks or boards, on either side of the leg. If these aren't available, you can even use tightly-rolled newspaper (like that used to swat a fly) as a splint. Make sure that the splint extends past the injury and also stabilizes the joints on either side of the break site.

    • 5

      Wrap the brace with gauze, starting at the top of the leg. Gently wrap it around the entire length of the brace. Keep the gauze in place using tape. Be careful not to wrap the brace too tightly, however. This may restrict blood flow to the area which is important for healing.