Swelling (edema) in a cat's ankle (carpel) can be caused by one of several different factors. Your veterinarian will perform a clinical exam and diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the swelling. A complete history of the onset of symptoms and your cat's behavior are important clues to the diagnosis.
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Bacterial Arthritis
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In cats, the most common cause of bacterial arthritis is being bitten by another cat. Cats with bacterial arthritis will have a high fever accompanied with painful swelling at the site of infection.
Calicivirus
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Calicivirus is usually thought of as a respiratory virus; however, this virus may also cause inflammation of the joints. When calicivirus affects the carpel joint your cat may show signs of lameness; in addition, he may have a high fever and be unwilling to eat.
Progressive Polyarthritis
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Feline progressive polyarthritis is an extremely painful degenerative joint disease that usually affects the carpel and hock joints. Cats with this disease have swollen joints and may be reluctant to walk. Some cats may experience fever, loss of appetite and swollen lymph nodes.
Carpal Hyperextension
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Carpal hyperextension in cats is usually the result of landing on the front legs from a significant height. This causes a breakdown in the cartilage and ligaments of the carpel joint. Your cat will be unable to place weight on the leg and the joint will be painful and swollen.
Lyme Disease
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Lyme disease is caused by a microorganism that is carried by certain types of ticks. Lyme disease causes painful swelling in the joints. If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to arthritis, heart, kidney and neurological problems.
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