Posted by: Lois Lindemann on: January 13th, 2008 
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Should you become a three legged cat you will still be able to enjoy your pampered cat lifestyle. Here is some advice for the newly three-legged cat:
1. Prepare to become a local legend
Everybody loves three legged cats. Absolutely everybody. Even the man next door who didn’t like you at all when you had four legs will say “Ah!”. Make the most of your fame and use it to your advantage.
Train the paperboy. He will think you are so cute that he will turn up with little treats for you hidden in his pockets, you will hardly be able to keep up with him as he does his round because you have to keep stopping to eat them.
The two children across the road will fall in love with you and worship you. Allow them to pet you, then they will feed you bits of chocolate biscuit when they think no-one is looking.
When your human pet has gone to work, hang around looking very sad and neglected. You will be able to persuade the nice lady who lives up the road to set out early for work, just so that she can stop and make a fuss of you. When you sneak into her house later on, she will feed you little dishes of tuna fish, allow you to sleep in front of her fire and play with her own cat’s toys.
2. You will discover just how stupid some humans can be
Some foolish people will completely fail to notice that you only have three legs. They will make stupid remarks such as “I think your cat’s limping, is he alright?” Do these humans really think that you can’t run about on three legs? They seem to manage, even though they only have two. Do not allow these idiots to rub your ears, for they are not worthy of it.
3. Develop some new climbing techniques
At home, you may need to be more imaginative. When your human pet thinks that an unattended dish of trifle is out of your reach, you can prove her wrong, by climbing onto a chair, then jumping onto the table, before finally launching yourself at the work surface. Mmm custard, your favourite thing in the world…
However, it is best if you do not attempt to climb any tall trees, this will result in an undignified failure. Instead hang around on the ground looking disinterested and mock the four legged cats who attain more height, but who look most ungainly as they clamber upwards.
4. Play cat and mouse.
Hunting birds is more difficult when you have only three legs, it is so much more effort to leap in the air. You may prefer to develop a taste for mice instead. When you get really old and lazy you might even try hunting worms. Or slugs. (But don’t let your human pet see you do that, or she will shout “Yuk!” and decline to cuddle you.)
5. Train your human pet to pander to your every whim
Your human pets will worry greatly about your three legged status and will be acutely aware of your every difficulty, so make the most of their feelings of guilt and use them to your advantage.
In the first weeks after your operation, decline to eat anything apart from the finest cuts of meat. Your humans will be extremely vexed about your health and will happily serve your choice of food.
When you begin to recover, pull your claws wildly on the carpet of the bottom step of the stair and on the base of the sofa until your dozy humans get the message and provide you with recumbent scratching facilities.
Once you are fully mobile, remember to look as if you are struggling from time to time, this will allow you to keep your human pets’ undivided attention. If you see one of them walking home laden with as much shopping as they can carry, hop out pathetically to meet them, making sure that you appear to be struggling to walk, then ride home in state, sitting on their shoulder whilst chuckling inwardly at how much they are struggling to carry you and all those bags. Once you have reached home in this manner and been placed gently back at ground level, run off at top speed with no difficulty whatsoever.
You will quickly discover that your three-leggedness is not necessarily a disadvantage as some humans might think; in fact it often makes it much easier for you to train the local humans to worship you and do your bidding.
Well, it has been three days now that Fitchy has been home. The first night was very rough. I slept on the floor with him and he woke in the middle of the night howling and flopping all over the place. Then, he began to pant like crazy. I am not sure if he was panicking or having a bad reaction to the pain meds. We finally calmed him down by placing him on a heating pad on a very low temp and he slept for the rest of the night. He also had a bad first experience in the litter box and now he will not go into it at all. He is doing a lot of hiding but when I go and retrieve him from his hiding spot to come and sit with me he is back to his old purring self, which makes me happy. We took his bandage off today and he seems a lot more comfortable. He has already hopped over baby gates that we have in place to keep the dog out of the other kittie’s litter boxes. He goes on the 13th to have his staples removed. I have cut out the front part of the litter box so that he can just walk into it and placed a bath mat in front so that it is not slippery (we have wood floors) but he is still not interested. Any other suggestions? He definitely hasn’t lost his appetite. I do worry about him gaining weight but can’t help but spoil him right now.
Hi, i have just found this blog and its been very helpful, my cat billy has come home 2nite since having back leg amputated at the vets. The only thing im still worried about after reading everyones posts is that Billy seems very angry and is growling/hissing while lying on the floor and gets very angry because he cant get up. Getting up seems to be really hard for him and he has only managed twice so far in 5 hours! did any other cat do this? im worried he wont be able to eat/use litter tray if he doesnt suss how to get up
Lucy
Hi Lucy don’t worry about the way Billy is it’s totally normal as my cat Tiger who had his eg amputatated 4 weeks today was exactly the same. When we got him home he was growling and hissing and couldn’t get up I think the growling and hissing is frustration. Try and keep him restricted to one room though and away from the stairs. He will be ok with his litter tray he might fall out a few times as Tiger did but they soon get used to it. Also make sure you keep him indoors. Try for a bit to keep his food water, and even litter tray in close proximity as this will make things a little easier for him.
You will notice a big improvement in him in probably a week or so dont worry if he seems to really roll over and jump quite high as he is doing it as Tiger did this, he still does from time to time.
Also now don’t let him when he can go out into the garden leave it as he won’t be able to jump the way he did so it makes him an easier prey for preditors. I still stand at the door when Tiger is out and have moved anything that could assist him in being able to climb over the fence.
Also I know it sound horrible put as he won’t be able to clean himself for a few days especially if he has a collar on I used to wipe Tigers bottom after he had used his litter tray with cotton wool and warm water as it does need cleaning to stop infection.
I hope Billy recovers quickly they usually do good luck
thanks Jill, (and Anne who commented but i cant find it on site!) Billy seems a bit better this morning i took the advice and moved his food and water right near him, he actually stood up for it! he is on metacam but has been for 3 weeks as prior to the leg, we were treating his foot as it got caught in a badger trap – it didnt heal hence the amputation…i hope in time like your cats he comes back to his normal self id hate him to change personality!Lucy
I haven’t been on here since August when my Trixie had her surgery. I’ve been reading this thread, and I hope that Fitchy feels better soon. Trixie and I slept together on the floor in our guestroom for the first 4 nights after her arrival home. The first night she was home, she scratched at the door (it was shut) because she wanted to be with me. That’s when I decided to stay with her! I bought a foil cookie sheet at the grocery store for her litter since I was worried about her climbing in and out of the box. She used it a few times, but was not using it to poop. Finally, on the third night, she escaped from her room, ran to the basement, and hopped in her litter box. It was hysterical! She desperately had to poop, but didn’t like the make-shift box I gave her to use. You might try something like that to see if it’s any easier for Fitchy.
Trixie was always a picky eater, and for some reason her appetite improved after surgery. I think the tumor was making her feel sick. She hasn’t gained much weight because she still runs all around the house and is even more playful than before the surgery. I’m sure Fitchy will stay slim and trim. Trixie might not since she has an obsession with eating deli meat that I buy for lunches!
The only bad experience Trixie had was trying to jump into a window. She likes to sit and look outside. She attempted to do this only 1 week after surgery, and it did not go well. She didn’t try again after that, but I’m hoping once Spring arrives she’ll give it a go. Fitchy might be feeling that way about his box. I had purchased pet stairs to put in front of windows and by my bed, but she wanted nothing to do with them. Kind of a pain since they cost so much money! Hope Fitcy has a successful recovery!
Hi Leah,
And Happy New Year. How are you & Fitchy doing? Sorry to hear that the first couple of days were a bit rough. I am not sure about why he might have been panting, my bet would be on the meds but hopefully your vet gave you some advice. With regards to the litter tray, we had to start using Puppy Training Pads for Tequila (or Poo pads as my other half calls them) as she had some bladder problems, i.e. had to suddenly go to the loo without notice/ time to get to the litter tray. Not sure whether this was brought on by the surgery though (same as Fitchy, she had cancer in her back leg which spread despite the surgery). It’s good to hear that Fitchy has managed to hop over the Baby gates, that’s a good sign. As Maribeth suggested, you could use pet stairs in the beginning just to make things that little bit easier (I actually have a set left over from Tequila and would be happy to send it free of charge to anyone here in the UK who needs it).
I think it will probably take a good couple of months until cats get used to navigate their way on 3 legs but when they do, oh boy, they still can run like whippets.
Best wishes,
Manuela & Cat Clan
Hi everyone! I am glad to report that Fitchy seems to be adjusting pretty well. He may not be running around with the other cats just yet but he seems to be hiding a bit less. He is back to sleeping with me instead of under the bed. I believe he has figured out the litter box situation. It is amazing how well cats can adapt. They are amazing little creatures. Fitchy is like my best friend and I hope he will remain with me for many more years. I love him to pieces as I am sure we all love our three legged friends:) He gets his staples removed next week. That trip to the vet may be a whole other story. I will keep you all posted. Thanks for all the well wishes. You have been so helpful in this whole experience!
Hey all
I have not posted for a few months (small baby) but have been trying to keep up with what is happening with all the little tripods 🙂 As there seem to be a few newcomers I thought I would reiterate how positive things have been for us. Brie had his rear leg removed early 2010 and aside from a week of him being dozy and gumpy on the pain relief and a couple of skids and falls on the wooden floor (because he was running and over excited!!!) he really is no different. Within 4 weeks we warily let him out and within minutes he had cleared our fence. He plays out as often as before, flies around the house as fast as before, fights with his brother as much as before. Really he is no different – in fact if anything maybe a bit friendlier?!
I know we were ‘lucky’ because it is his rear leg and he is just 4 and a very lean cat but just wanted to offer reassurance to Leah that it is early days and before you know it this horrendous ordeal (both for mummy and puss) will hopefully be far behind you. Personally I was happier once the fur had grown back and the painful reminder wasn’t there. Brie gets no special treatment (well no more than before, our boys are pretty spoilt) and really has just got on with it. We are hugely proud but if I am honest, he knows no different now and is blissfully unaware.
Purrs to you all and wishing you all a happy new year with your very special and brave pussy cats x
Hi Leah
I just wanted to echo what has already been said by the others. As I write, JJ is chasing the other two cats up and down the stairs and jumping on them from the top of his cat tower. Missing a back leg doesn’t deter him in the slightest now he has worked out his limitations. Still needs strategically placed furniture to act as steps up to the bed, sofa etc and can’t climb the fence or trees but only because I made that difficult for him!
I have also found that he has become more friendlier since surgery in July. Perhaps because he is spending so much time at home and in the garden rather than roaming the neighbourhood?
Happy New Year to you all.
Thanks for all the well wishes for Fitchy. If I haven’t shared with you before, Fitchy had to have his leg amputated because they found osteosarcoma on his shoulder. It’s been a pretty rough road. He has finally started coming out of hiding and is interacting with the other cats a little bit. He is still pretty timid and cautious, probably because he can no longer swat at them in defense. He has even begun climbing to the top of the cat tree. It is really true what they say, that three legged kitties adjust pretty quickly. He kind of hops along but has no problem jumping onto the bed. It is coming down that is a little trickier but he does just fine for himself. He jumped a baby gate within the first week of his surgery: I was also a little depressed because he didn’t seem as lovable right away but he is back to his lovey self. He goes in this Thursday to have his staples removed. His hair has even started to grow back a bit. I am keeping a positive outlook for his future:)
Hello everyone its been a while.Well there has been alot happening.Unfortunately pipkin is no longer with us.He was hit by a car right before christmas and didnt pull through.Was devastated after all we had been through in previous months with his leg.But been determined not to fall apart over it have now adopted a new tripod!! Jess is the new addition to our household.He is black and white the same as what pipkin was.He is quite a friendly cat when he wants to be and has adapted well to his new surroundings, so hoping he will stay off the road and stick to the garden and close surroundings!! We will see.
Our thirteen year old barn cat, Lucy, was recently attacked by a German Shepard. She has three cracked ribs on each side and a cracked sternum. She also had her leg amputated so she is going to live inside from now on. She is doing very well and is happy to be held almost all day. She gets so much attention and is friendlier then she has ever been before. She has purred throughout the entire experience and we hope to keep her happy and healthy!
I am glad to hear that Lucy is doing okay. I will keep her in my thought and prayers. When did this awful attack happen? My Fitchy has adjusted so well to his three legs. He is still playing and running with the other cats and I do not find that missing one leg has held him back at all. He is just as lovey (if not more so) than ever and is just eating up all the extra attention! Good luck with Lucy and keep us posted.
She was attacked on Feb. 12. She had her surgery on Feb. 14, and was discharged on Feb. 19. She is already jumping on furniture to get to our laps. She loves all of the attention and like your cat, she probably has never been more lovable. Thank you so much for your concern and advice. We will try to post more about Lucy.
Hi all. I found this article and it is truly the cutest thing! My cat Sassy, who I have had for about 13 years is going in tomorrow morning to have her back, right leg amputated. I am so, so sad about it. I got her when she was about 6 months and we later found out that her leg had been broken and was never properly set. It healed the same way it broke. So, all her life her leg has been a bit deformed and she has never had proper use of it. In the last few months though, a tumor has developed on her leg, and the doctors believe it to be cancerous. So, removing the leg will be the best decision for her. It’s terrible to think about it, but I would rather have her without that leg, that not have her at all. This article made me feel so much better though, so thank you to the person who posted it. Also, it is comforting to read that so many people have cats that are doing well after having similar experiences. Does anyone have any advice for me and Sassy in get through the coming weeks? I would sure appreciate it!
Sassy will be just fine:) I will keep her in my thoughts. I can understand how devastated you feel though. I felt the same way. But, as I type this message, my Fitchy sits here with me and is happy as a clam. It truly is amazing how quickly they adapt and heal. In fact, Fitchy’s hair is already almost full grown. We thought we were going to have to rearrange our house for him but he jumps, walks and gets to everything he wants just fine. At first, I was sad because he was hiding a lot. But, with lots of love and encouragement he got back to his old self in no time. My advice is simply to shower her with affection and I think she will do just fine. Fitchy is about the same age as sassy and we also have five other cats and a dog. I was worried that the other cats or dog would somehow bully him but he does just fine. We even began playing with him again with cat toys and he is a trooper. He can sit up on his hind legs to swat with his one front one:) He also still chases and plays with our younger kitties again. So, keep your chin up. Be patient with her and she will come around before you know it. Also, KEEP US POSTED:) Best of luck.
Our cat Lucy is thirteen but we feel like we have a new cat in the house. Now that she is indoors, she is adjusting very nicely to life inside. She already knows how to jump on the bed, even though she only has the back legs and the front right one. The only difference my family and I see in her is that she is more friendly and lovey. So as your cat adjusts, we will keep you in our thoughts as well.
Your kitty will be just fine! My Trixie has adjusted remarkably well to life with three legs. After the surgery, she was more cuddly, her appetite improved, and she became more feisty. She genuinely seems happy. The only problem is that she has learned to manipulate me, or so my husband says. When she walks slowly, it looks like she’s struggling. This immediately gets me all nervous and wound up. As a result, I end up giving Trixie extra treats or coddling her like crazy. Later on, I’ll see her sprinting through the house with my other cat and you can’t even tell she has three legs. She’s a tricky one, that Trixie!
Thank you all for the words of encouragement! It made me feel a lot better. Well, Sassy has yet to have her leg removed. We took her in last Friday, and they decided they wanted to biopsy the tumor and other parts of her leg, because they thought the cancer had spread. If it had’ve there would be no point in removing her leg because she wouldn’t have much longer. Thankfully though, the cancer hasn’t spread! We just found out today and I am so happy! So, she goes in tomorrow morning now to have the leg amputated. Thank you again for the words of encouragement, it has helped me greatly. I will let you all know how it goes, thanks again 🙂
Good luck Sassy! You will do great:) I am so happy to hear the cancer hasn’t spread. I know what it feels like to wait for those results. Keep us posted:)
Hi my cat Tiger has had his hind leg amputated today due to a tumour. I feel lost at what to do! he is hiding under my bed at the moment, but I don’t like him being there as I can’t see him and I don’t know if he is licking his stiches. My friend has offered me her dog cage so I can keep an eye on him do you think this is ok to do or will it stress him more? I am not sure how to pick him up as obviously I don’t want to hurt him! The vet said try not to handle too much which I won’t but he will need some help. How do you go about the litter tray and cleaning after they have used it? would it be ok for me to wipe his bottom with some damp cotton wool? I am so confused and feel so useless, I want to help him as much as possible but I don’t want to hurt him in anyway.
Good luck Hannah with sassy my very best to you both I know how stressful it is as my cat has had his amputated today xx
Hi Jill
See my posts July 2010. I put JJ in a dog crate in the kitchen when he came home after his amputation. Mainly to keep him away from the other two cats so he could have some peace and quiet but near to me so he had company. I put some vet bed in the bottom and a small cat tray. Small food and water bowls, the sort you can hang on to the bars which I had from his cat show days although he hardly ate anything. I covered the crate with a blanket with just a gap so he could peep out. He just wanted to be left alone the first couple of days with just a few cuddle moments when I gave him medication or checked the stitches. I just picked him up as normal, cradling his remaining back leg and sitting him on my knee. The crate was a godsend and certainly didn’t stress him. Even after he didn’t really ‘need’ it, he used to pop in there for a sleep if he wanted peace and quiet.
Gradually I opened the crate door so he could wander out when he wanted. It took a lot of patience to just watch him stagger about and get used to being off balance When he went on the cat tray he wobbled about a bit but soon learnt to compensate.
Once the stitches are out and the anaesthetic wears off things will get a bit easier. I reassembled the cat tower so there were acceible platforms and put a footstool by my bed so he could jump up.
It is a bit like watching a toddler, you just have to let them slip and stumble. Eight months later, JJ is climbing trees and racing round the house with the others. He has developed a trick of leaping on the other cats in a playfight and sort of dragging them down into a half-nelson wrestling position favouring his legless side! Still top cat in my household despite his disability.
See Life with a Three legged cat section also.
Good luck -Tiger will be fine!
Hi Anne and thanks for the advice. Well we had a pretty good night with Tiger, he slpet most of it. He is pretty grumpy if you go near him and hisses which is something he has never done but very understandable. He has managed the litter tray after tumbling out a couple of times he kept on at it and thankfully seems to be doing well with it.
He didn’t like the cage at all and just cried so we have let him out but we are keeping him restricted to the one room. He has jumped up onto the sofa which I ma not happy about so soon after his operation and I just wondered what the cat tower is as that might be of help?
He keeps on trying to lick his stitches so I am going to go and get him a collar as the vet said he would need one if he did this! why they didn’t put one on him in the first place I don’t know.
Overall I have to say I am very impressed with the way Tiger is moving about, but then the vet did say that he has probably only been using the 3 legs for a while now.
I still feel so sorry for him and really guilty for not noticing his bad leg straight away but I know I have done the right thing in having it amputated as the vet said treatment most likely wouldn’t have worked. I just hope it hasn’t spread and I have many more years with him yet.
Once again thank you for your advice
Hi Jill:
I am glad you had a good first night. It is very frustrating and heart breaking because our animals are like our children. I had wished I had a dog crate for Fitchy when he had his surgery because he hid a lot too and I would get scared when I couldn’t find him. However, I think it is best to let them hide and do their thing for the first couple of weeks. I think the best thing you can do is just give them lots of love and attention, on their terms. I also think the cat tower helped him a lot. It is just a tall structure with different levels that cats can climb onto. I think they feel safer or more empowered when they are up high and have a view of their surroundings. We had also cut one of the sides off of the litter box to help him get into it but he preferred to stumble over the side and he figured it out for himself. When I would hold him and lie with him, I would put a blanket over him and he would then sit with me. My vet had him on pretty heavy pain medication for several days and I thought the pain meds made him more lovey!! He was probably stoned for a few days:) LOL So, good luck and keep positive thoughts. Once the pain has gone away I am sure your kitty will be back to normal! Good luck and keep us posted.
Hi just thought I would ask for some advice. Tiger has been doing well since his operation but today he has been acting very odd. Unfortunely the door was left open and Tiger fell down the stairs. He is moving about ok but every now and then he kinda freaks out rolling over and over and then trying to walk backwards and dragging himself along the floor. He has knocked his stitches when he fell as I can see a little blood but not much at all! I am wondering if by him knocking them they have caused them to itch more and this is why he is getting stressed as he can’t scratch. I am very worried about him as he just seems very depressed which I think is because of his collar but the rolling over and over and freaking out. Thanks Guys
Hi Jill & Tiger,
I think it might be simply his collar; my little Tequila had one but I found it stressed her more than the actual scar/ missing leg so I took it off. After that she calmed down and I only caught her once nibbling on her scars. Just keep an eye out for the scar if it looks swollen or red.
To stop Tiger from chewing, you could use some Bitter/ Chew Stop Spray which they sell at most pet stores (alternatively you can use lemon juice or Tabasco around the scar area however you must make sure that don’t get in onto the stitches as it might irritate the wound).
Hang in there, the first couple of weeks are tough but I promise you, he’ll be back to normal in no time. Some cats are back to normal in no time; others just take that little bit longer – just like us humans.
I found that it took me far longer to adjust to that scar/ missing leg than Tequila; but boy did she make me spoil her!
Let us know how you are getting on.
Fingers crossed,
X Manuela & assorted Cat clan
I agree, the elizabethan collar that the vet put on, completely freaked out JJ. I think he was completely disorientated as cats use their ears, whiskers and peripheral vision to suss out their environment.
Having said all that – eight months on – I’ve had to get three trees chopped down in the garden as JJ insisted on climbing them to get over the high wall into the wide world! The fact that he couldn’t get back in the garden didn’t stop him, hence such drastic measures to contain him. I’m sure he’ll perfect another escape technique soon!
Hi Anne,
The way you described JJ’s antics made me smile. I have had a similar problem with my lot and found (what I hope to be) the perfect solution.
We have a huge cat run in the garden with cat proof fencing. We have also a number of oak trees in there which are now so big that there branches link up with the fir trees outside the run. Unfortunately this is a great escape routes for all our squirrels but not so great for our cats, who keep chasing them up the trees and then regularly test the branches, to see if they can jump onto the fir trees yet. We have now used those thick pliable perspex plastic sheets 1×2 metres(not sure what you actually call them?!) and folded them half-way up the tree with a rubber band (so we don’t have to nail them onto the tree). The perfect fire wall as it stops our cats from climbing up the tree and the squirrels from getting down into the cat enclosure and as they are see-through, they are not an eyesore either. So far it’s been 6 months and no cat has made it through. Finger crossed :o)
Regards,
Manuela
My cat just had his surgery this morning. he had a crushed paw so we had amputate his leg right below the shoulder. my uncle who is the state vet of alabama did it for me so that was better. so after they recouperate do they get better?? do they become normal again?
Hi connor my cat had his back leg amputated 3 weeks ago now and he is doing really well. Every now and again when he is getting up he forgets he has lost a leg and falls over well it’s like a somersault or looks like he is having a siezure which can be quite scary especially at first but he and I am getting used to it and the vet says its not unusual. We have started to let him go in the garden but have secured it so he can’t escape and we do watch him in the garden now, as I don’t think he will ever be able to go out of it now incase he comes into trouble regarding other animals as he won’t be able to climb to escape the way he once could.
All in all I am pleased with his progress and he doesn’t seem as bad as he did before the amputation which was due to a tumour as I don’t think he is in pain anymore and apart from the odd fall he pretty much moves about well.
Goodlucj with your cat
Hi Lucy
Took a while to find your post as they all seem to have got out of order….
The hissing and grumpiness may also be due to the anaesthetic which will take a while to wear off. Has your vet given you any metacam, pain relieving liquid? I am sure things will settle down in a few days.
Best wishes
Anne
Hello all,
I have fell in love with a three-legged cat at petsmart, and am planning to get her. What can I do to cat-proof the house for a kitty tripod? This cat LOVES to climb, but that was how she injured herself in the first place. Also, would other cats in the house make life harder for her?
Hello all I’m a bit worried about my cat Nellie she jumped down from quite a height & severely damaged the ligaments & bones in her rea leg joint & ended up having her rear leg amputated on Thursday. She is back home now.
Obviously she appears to have lost confidence! How long will it take for her to get it back?
By the way Nellie only has one eye, she lost it at less than 6 weeks old, before we got her.
I’ve raed your advice which has heartend me a bit, but I’m still worried for her, she is 12 years old.
any more advice would be gratefully recieved.
Thanks
I’ve read your blog because 2 1/2 weeks ago my little Tre’ (it’s been her name since she was 3 months old) had to have her front right leg amputated due to cancer. She has always been a very fearful cat, of everything, even things she is used to having in her life. She still isn’t moving around much and I’m worried about her like any good cat mom would be. She can move, I’ve seen her but she mostly just hides in the closet until I get her and bring her out with me to sit, I make her walk back to the closet by herself. She doesn’t seem depressed, in fact today we played a bit. With all these TLC’s here I was hoping that someone else might have a fearful cat and that you might be able to tell me how long it took for them to really start moving around the house like normal. I slept with her for 8 nights after she came home and I know that I’m probably over protective but I’m trying hard not to be, as my girlfriend calls me, a Kitty Enabler. Any advice you could give me would be most welcome. Hope your babies are all doing well.
I’m so sorry to hear about Nellie and Tre’, I hope they are both doing well. I dont think you really need to cat proof the house, unless her climbing will definitely result in another injury. I’m sure that the other cats will be perfectly fine with her. Keep us posted on how both of your cats are doing!
Dear Sonja:
I think you are doing all the right things. My Fitchy did the same thing. He hid in the closet a lot until I dragged him out. I would even sleep on the floor with him because I was afraid of him jumping off of the bed at night. Fitchy is afraid of his own shadow too. I want to say it did take several weeks before he really began to move around the house again. Don’t worry, she will come around. Just keep giving her the added affection and attention. Good luck everyone. It is a journey but all worth it in the end. I just keep praying that Fitchy’s cancer does not return but he is doing very well at the moment.
Dear Leah,
Thanks so much for the words of encouragement, I really need to hear them. This was an agonizing decision for me and I’ve cried a boatload of tears over it. But Tre’ is resiliant, she’s had some major trials in her life and I’ve been there for most of them as she has been with us since she was 3 months old. I’m thankful to hear that your scardie cat is/has adapted well and I’m praying that my scardie cat does the same. This morning she did come out and sit on the rug in the hall for just a few minutes and she ate some breakfast there but then headed back to her safe cubby hole in the closet. Thanks again for the advice, I really appreciate it.
Dear all, I am sorry for not having posted for sometime but I have kept reading posts as they have popped into my email account.
I thought I would give an update on my tripod Brie as there are some new faces……
Brie’s recovery from the removal of his rear leg was rapid. He sulked and was very sleepy on the meds for a week, within weeks he was back outside and his latest adventure involved catching a live blackbird and bringing it in for us last week!!
As before, I really can say that the amputation, aside from making him more loving has barely impacted upon his life. He jumps 6 foot fences, wins most fights with his 4 legged brother and definietly runs faster than him.
I remember how emotional it was at the time but hope this gives strength to those of you just experiencing this with your pusscats.
Kate
Hi everyone,
Our cat Magic (or Madge as we affectionately know her!) is due to have a back leg amputed on Tuesday (3rd May). She broke her leg last week & even though our lovely vet tried to pin/wire it all back together she obviously made a really good job of destroying her ankle! All the posts have sooo helped me feel happier about the future with her. She’s been 3 days in a rabbit hutch (a large indoor one) as we were trying to preserve her leg in a fixed postion but it’s failed so I’m hoping she’ll be able to be out & about as soon as possible after the next operation.
I think the collar she has to wear is causing her most stress but she just can’t leave her stitches alone so she has to wear one. I think that will be the biggest problem after Tuesday. What is the best thing to do, keep her in the cage for a day or so & then once she’s over the Op get her out & about? I know she wants to be out so I think that will have to be best.
I feel she’s getting depressed already after 3 days & I really feel so bad keeping her cooped up at the moment but have no choice. She’s just 5 years old & otherwise really fit & well. I think previous posts probably cover all the advice available but anything else that may help would be greatly appreciated! I am so glad I have found this site, it’s made me feel so much more positive. I’ve just read every post with my 12 year old son!
Thanks for being there 🙂
Carolyn
Carolyn, My little Tre’ had a front leg amputated almost 5 weeks ago. When I brought her home she was a mess but I put her in one of the rooms she felt safe in and closed the door, that way she had the whole room to herself. I spent many, many hours with her to make me feel better. She’s a scardie cat so this was doubly traumatic for her.
I made what they call a soft collar that she could wear more as a bib than one of the collars that came up around her head. Fortunately for me, even though she is a hard core groomer, she left her stitches alone and I didn’t have to use it. I know that cat’s don’t do well with the collars. I would see how she does before you go back to the collar after the amputation. This is going to be an adjustment for her and she might just surprise you.
My Tre’ did get depressed, she has hid in the closets for almost 5 weeks now but we are on the up swing now and I’m just so proud of her. Give your madge all the love you can, try to do all the normal things. If you do soft food as a treat, continue it. My cat gets whipped cream each evening at about 9 and we kept giving it to her and it is amazing what a small blob of whipped cream can do for the cat soul. If it is normal that she is alone most of the time during the day, check on her but kinda leave her alone. If she went outside before, when she is feeling like it, let her go back outside. Normalicy is what has helped Tre’. She is now back to playing and going outside, it’s taken her a while but it is slowly happening and I was so worried that she’d never find her new normal.
Hang in there Carolyn, it is going to be hard on both of you, we love our pets so much, but Madge will make it and so will you, just give her lots of love and time to heal for both of you. I received a ton of support from here and facebook and that is partly how we made it through. There are lots of TLC’s out there and they are so special and resiliant. Let us know how Madge does. Hugs and I’ll send good thoughts Madge’s way on Tuesday that she does well with her surgery.
How did Madge’s surgery go? Have been thinking about her and said several prays on Tuesday that all went well. You’ll be amazed how quickly she’ll heal and find her new normal. My Tre’ is now 5 1/2 weeks post op, she is scared of everything so I think it is taking her a little longer but now that it is getting warmer outside she is coming out of her safe haven more and more. I find that she is still the same kitty but now more affectionate. Give both of you time to heal. We love our babies and we hurt so much for them but take the time to enjoy your baby and, at least for me, patience was the word. Please keep us posted on your progress. Hugs.
Thanks so much Sonja! It sounds like you’ve had a difficult time with Tre’ but it so heartening to know you’ve made it through the worst bit. Well Madge is home now, not very happy as I guess we expected, but the most important thing to me is she is still herself. Not sure what I expected but I was worried she would be different somehow? She’s in our utility room for the moment so we’ll leave her there for a while. I made a note of your point about treats, we do ‘do’ treats so I’ll make sure I keep all that normal. She does need the collar unfortunately, she was trying to lick the missing leg on the way home from the vet even! But she’s okay with it at the moment. I’ve been fussing & combing which seems to help her. The actual wound is quite shocking but I guess that’s normal. I assume that all heals over to just fur, which will be so much nicer.
I’m quite worried about the next few days to be but I’m going to be as normal as I can with her. Did you wait until stitches were out etc before letting her go outside, I guess that’s best. I do worry about the going outside bit, she was out a lot before so she’ll be desperate to get out. But we’re going to cat-proof the garden a bit more so we know she’ll be just in our garden.
One amazing thing was that when we got her back, she went straight to her water bowl on her 3 legs & stood there & drank! Only about 3 feet away but she just did it! It was so encouraging.
At least day-1 is out of the way & she’s okay. Thanks so much for taking the time to reply to me!
Hi Carolyn,
Sorry to hear about Madge. Like you I obtained great comfort from this forum when my tabby cat had her rear right leg amputated 5 months ago. The wound looks really scary when its new but Tess’ fur has now grown in and she looks a lot better! You’ll be surprised how soon you (and she) get used to three legs. I took a few days off work when Tess first came back from the vets but she did really well, managing the litter tray and everything. I was amazed that she ran out of the carrier straight to her food minutes after arriving home….getting her priorities right for sure!!
Tess does go outside (think it’s sensible to wait till stitches are out) and I was definately worried at first that she would want to go near the road and whilst I wanted her to have access to outdoors, I certainly didn’t want either of us to go through something so horrible again. I’m glad to say that as it was a rear leg Tess lost she is not able to jump as well as she used to so cannot clear fences. She seems happy to potter about in our back garden (she was even stalking a pigeon the other day)and you may find the same with your puss. I hope so. Hang on in there…she is the same cat as she was before and if she’s anything like Tess her old personality will still be there.
I wish you both the very best over the next few weeks and months and I hope you’ll keep us posted on your progress!
Take care, Sharon
Hi Sonja & Sharon! Thanks for your lovely notes, they have really made so much difference to my whole approach to what could have been a complete disaster without your information!
Well, I am amazed. Madge had the Op on Tuesday & to be honest, apart from getting to grips with which order she needs to move her legs in, she is just doing so well. We went back to the vets for a post op check yesterday & he was pleased with the actual wound & way it is healing, so that was a relief. She’s off the antibiotics & pain relief now. She is definately herself. We have decided to keep the collar on as I just know she’ll have a go at the stitches if she had the chance. But it’s such a shame to see her trying to lick her chest & body as she simply ends up giving the inside of the collar a really good clean up! I may take it off & see what she does though as we can always put it back on until the stitches are out next week. Do you think I’m worrying too much? It’s just that I’d hate to go backwards given she is doing so well. She is getting about okay, she can get on the sofa & her favourite chair but trying to run up the stairs didn’t go too well, she’s going to have to work that one out on her own I think. Coming down I imagine is a challenge too. I’ll keep you posted on that one! Tommorow’s job is checking the garden is secure before she tries going out.
Thanks so much again for your support. Hope your puss cats are all doing okay!
Carolyn
Dear Carolyn, you would have laughed at me if you could have seen how worried I was about my Tre’. I still worry that she’ll fall down the stairs in the dark and break her one good front leg. I even still keep night lights on for her. I would never be the one to say you are worrying to much, I think the worry was what kept me sane. I’m so happy to hear that she is doing well, that’s amazing since it hasn’t even been a week. As far as getting up and down, she’ll figure it out, you may cringe a few times before she gets it but hang in there with her and she’ll get it. Right now I would carry her up the stairs if she’ll let you at least until the stitches come out. If she likes to be brushed, maybe do that a little extra since she can’t clean like normal. She might be itchy and the brushing will help with that. My Tre’ comes unglued when I brush her and just doesn’t want me to quit, she just loves it so much. Sounds like you are doing all the right things and that you are a wonderful mom to your new TLC. Give her hugs & kisses from Sonja and Tre’ and hang in there, it will only get better. Keep us posted.
Hello all,
Reading all these comments has been a real help to me today.
My lovely fluffy black cat (2 years old) Tommy went missing last Saturday and was found by my husband this morning in the neighbours barn. I had searched for him high and low all week and don’t know where he had been but managed to almost get back home.
He had an injured front leg and was taken to the vets.
They have said that he has broken his leg in 2 places and will need to have his leg amputated.
I am so happy that he has been found but very upset about the planned amputation.
Reading your comments has been really reassuring which is just what I need at the moment.
We live in France but I still work in the UK and so have been in the UK since Wednesday and I do not go home to see him until a week today.
Have you any advice about the early few days of recuperation as hubby will be on his own and I want to be able to prepare him for what to expect.
What a week its been, I am emotionally exhausted !
Juley
Hi Juley,
My Tre’ baby lost her right front leg 6 1/2 weeks ago. Her healing is incredible. The fur is growing back in and she is getting along fine. She is however a very fearful cat, always has been, and we are still dealing with her fearfulness but other than that, she’s doing great.
My advice for you is first, take a breath, I cried almost everyday after I found out Tre’ had cancer and that the leg had to go. Cry and get it out of your system but not around the cat. They are very perceptive and know if you’re upset and when you’re upset, so are they. Be as positive and supportive & loveing as possible when you are around her, it makes a world of difference. I tell Tre’ everyday that she is the most beautiful baby, that I’m proud of her and love her so much.
Second, it’s gonna be okay. Often with an injury, they are so happy that the pain is gone that they feel better almost immediately. When you bring her home, put her in a place she feels safe, spend some extra time with her but try to keep things as normal as possible. If she got treats before, make sure she gets them now, if you brushed her, keep on brushing her, if you left them alone most of the day, check on her but leave her alone like before. normal is what they need.
Last but not least, know that it is going to be okay and that there is a lot of support here. We’ll keep you in our thoughts. Please keep us posted and sending you a big hug from Me and Tre’
Sonja
For Sonja & Sharon, & especially for Juley,
I continue to be amazed at the progress Magic is making now, after having her back right leg amputated only 10 days ago, although I still can’t quite believe I am saying that? We had stitches out this morning, a little bit traumatic, which is an understatement really as I had to hold her down while the vet pulled the one long sticth out, gradually, but it meant I could take the collar off (phew), which was an obvious delight to Madge herself. The subsequent insistent licking is still a bit worrying but everything all the lovely people on this site have said is true, the puss cats themselves seem to know what they need to do & just do it. I have to say Madge is so much happier now, even playing with toys, I just can’t believe it to be honest!? Also, she has mastered the stairs now, but I am very worried about how she comes down having not seen how she does it yet.
I am worried she doesn’t seem to be eating much but I hope that will improve now her collar is off. She was looking very fed up at the start of the week to be honest, but seems much better now. Any advice on how to keep her happy up would be great, lots of treats seem to work but I’m worried she won’t get enough vitamins etc. I am also very worried about letting her outisde but she’s desperate to go so I think I might have to let her, what do you think?
Juley, the last 2 weeks have been truly horrendous to be honest but if I look back & think where we were….. & where we are now it really is okay to say that it does get better, it really does. Magic just wanted love & affection all the time after she got home & still does. She comes up to see us at 6:20AM every day now & simply wants to be there with us. Your hubby just needs to be there for your Tommy to let him know it’s all still okay. My husband Nick took it all much harder than I did, which surprised me, but he’s okay now madge is looking back to herself.
Good luck hope it that all goes okay.
Carolyn
I am so pleased to hear that Madge is coping well and coming along. I would let her go outside, keep an eye on her but let her try, you’d be amazed at how well they know their limits. I kept a child safety gate on my basement stairs because I was afraid Tre’ would fall down them but then I watched her go down the deck stairs with no problem at all & I removed the gate. She goes slow down the inside stairs but she does great. I propped the door open so that when she wanted to come inside she could whenever she wanted to, she is only outside for a little while but it is what she needed.
Tre’ still has problems with balance and has fallen on her face a couple times but that is getting better too. Madge may not be able to jump like before so add some steps where needed or a ramp, but you’ll be amazed at what your baby can still do. I know I am.
It will continue to get better and now you can help others like so many people have helped me get through it. My cats are my babies, I’d do just about anything for them so this was probably the worst thing I’ve ever had to deal with but Tre’ is amazing and resilient and adapting so well. Hang in there and keep us posted. Hugs from Sonjs and Tre’
Hi Carolyn
I saw this site last July and it was a constant support when JJ my oriental had his back leg amputated. There is also a link to ‘Life with a three legged cat’ which helps when your cat is over the worst of it. If you go up to the top of the page left hand side and click HOME then click under the right hand black cat MORE ABOUT…there will be headings on the left hand side LIFE WITH A THREE LEGGED CAT is first then ADVICE FOR……..
There are loads of tips for how people’s cats have coped with things like cat trays, steps, cat flaps, jumping on furniture, weight gain etc
My JJ just got on with it and has been humbling to watch him work out his own ways of coping. I joked at the time that if it had been me having a leg amputated I would have needed trauma counselling and a bucket of tranquillisers. I thought he would never cope but he has been to the cattery when I’m on holiday and they make sure his bed is not on a high shelf and add a wider ramp, remove cat flap door to outside run etc.
He bunny hops when going slow, then runs like a greyhound, faster than my other two cats. Still first to the food and treats, still chasing birds and pouncing on toys but with a nose dive when he falls over on the missing leg side. He has become a little more affectionate which is a bonus and when I see him trying to scratch his ear with the phantom leg, he runs up for me to do it for him.
Outside he has climbed a nine foot wire mesh fence and disappeared into next door’s garden but I heard him scrabbling about and just watched to see how he did it and was amazed at how he was learning to adapt like a novice on a climbing wall. But I rescued him on the other side as he just could not jump back up again. So like having a toddler, I made sure that all garden access points were at least four foot high!
Only problem – the loss of leg means extra pressure on the remaining limb and arthritis. So I check his feet regularly. And he is on a diet as he soon regained his former weight- the vet reminded me that his weight should be the previous weight minus loss of leg. Your vet may have his weight records and make the calculations. JJ got quite fat with compensatory eating and treats so I ignored the howls and he is nice and svelte again.
Good luck!
Anne
Carolyn,
Thank you so much for going to to trouble of replying.
It really has helped me think that everything will be OK in time.
I will keep you all posted on his (and our !) progress.
Best wishes to you all, this site has been such a big help.
Juley
I am so glad that I have found this site tonight. My 3 year old cat Kitty was run over earlier today, but managed to get herself home with one back leg badly mauled (it looked like she has lost her paw) and the other back leg covered in blood with no skin in places. The vet has told me that her left leg will have to be amputated as it has multiple fractures, but she needs to examine the other leg in more detail. I am really trying to be positive as she managed to walk home from wherever the accident happened. Just keeping my fingers crossed that they can save the other leg, but after reading all the comments on this site I feel more positive about her managing if she survives this and has to live with 3 legs.
Hi Jess,
So sorry to read about kitty, poor girl. I will be keeping everything crossed for Kitty and you.
I too have found this site a real help when I found out my cat Tommy would have to have his leg amputated.
He had his operation today and he will come home tomorrow.
I will let you know how he (and we) get on. Its been a real rollercoaster of emotions this week as he was lost for 5 days and of course I was overjoyed when he was found and then terribly upset when we found out about him losing a leg.
Keep us posted Jess.
Take care,
Juley
Ohhhh… Jess, poor Kitty! I am going to pray very hard that she will be okay. What a strong girl to get home after that! I cannot believe that someone hit her and didn’t even stop the car! If Kitty does have to have one leg amputated, believe what you read on this site. She will do just fine:) Please, please keep us posted. I hope she is okay.
Leah
thanks ao much for posting this blog. with heavy heart I am looking after my wonderful cat who was the victim of a horrid person who set a wire animal trap then left it and apparently didnt check it for three weeks. How Casper survived without food and water is beyond my understanding but he severely broke his front leg entering the trap and the vet told me today his leg will have to be amputated as soon as he is strong enough… your blog has been hope and inspiration to me and Casper as he will soon join the ranks of the special “tripods”
Beth, I will keep Casper in mt thoughts & prayers too! What a horrifying experience for him! Keep us informed!
thanks Leah, I will look to this blog as a place for hope and inspiration and knowledge…I am still so very angry and sadden by what has been done to my precious buddy. we brought him to our mountain house today and he was just so glad to be with us he purred five straight hours in the car. dont know how we will all adjust ( two German Shepherds, one Bull Mastiff ( who like to chase cats) and six other cats to this new life we have) but we will for sure. thanks for this site
Beth,
Glad to hear Casper is being a purry boy. I trust he had been missing for 3 weeks then, how was he found ? If he can survive the ordeal of the trap and no food/water for so long this part will be a piece of cake for him. He is clearly a survivor. Do keep us posted, Love to Casper, you and your menagerie ! Juley
Thanks for your thoughts and prayers Leah and Juley. Kitty has survived the night which is a positive sign and I am now waiting for the vet to contact me after they have examined her more thoroughly. I just have to stay positive. I will update when I have spoken to the vet. It is lovely to know that other people are routing for her. Jess
Lots of people rooting for you and your baby. Sounds like your cat is a true fighter and if he can survive all he has already been through then hopefully he will recover fully health wise and life as a tripod isn’t as bad as it sounds. My Tre’ is now almost 7 weeks post op with a right front leg amputation and she is wonderful. She is fear driven but other than the fear, she is my furry little super hero. Hang in and keep us posted. Lots of love & prayers here.
Juley, sounds like we have similar experiences except Casper..new name Lazarus..was gone almost three weeks. we assumed after looking everywhere coyotes had gotten him… then he drug his poor body home. the vet said trap then ( now dont think I am nuts,, ) i called my animal communicator, and Casper said he had indeed been in a wire trap, where he had broken his leg as trap door slammed on him ( we had thought leg trap but couldnt understand why something hadnt killed him) and an older man had opened the trap. he described his journey home and the man and I have a pretty good idea of where and who set this trap. once I have proof I WILL confront. but I cannnot investigate till people are out of town…i cannot imagine the horror this poor sweet kitty has gone through and now he must go through a new horror when his body has recovered. another day or two and he would not have survived,he is putting on weight but bones are still protruding and he has lost hair from just laying down so long, hes lost so much weight his fangs stick out..he is one strange looking fellow right now but what a champion. will say a prayer for your kitty too
Beth,
Your one strange looking little fella sounds like a little fighter. Thanks so much for the update. What a terible experience for you all. Lots of love Juley x
Tommy Tripod update
He is home with his Daddy, who has been fabulous. I am still in the UK but returning to France on Friday.
He is very bright eyed and full of life, just trying to work out where the hell his right leg has gone.
Hubby has sent some photo through and it is so nice to see my little soldier for the first time in over a week.
At one point I thought I would never see him again so although he looks like he has been through the wars it is so good to see a photo of him. Lots of hugs to you all xxx
One of the hardest parts for me was and still is not being able to explaing to my Tre’ what had happened & why. They look at you and you can see that they would just love you to tell them what the hell happened. So happy that Tommy is home and doing well. It will only get better from here. Hang in there, stay positive & before you know it, he will be finding his new normal and be back to his old self. Hugs from Sonja & Tre’ Tripod.