Cat Broken Leg- I'm Not Coping

[Jelly1995]

Hi all

My three year old cat fell from my third story apartment today. Poor baby completely broke both bones in the area from elbow to paw.

The hospital has him sedated on methedrone, as they can't do something until Monday (it's Saturday night today) when the surgeon arrives to review his case. They are not sure if surgery or amputation is required and I'm really not coping.

Since I arrived home without him I have been a mess, crying inconsolably and feeling empty. When I see his food bowls I physically break down wailing. I don't know what to do and I know I should be grateful that he is alive

 

[Kieka]

I know how hard it is. My boy went missing for four days, came home with a broken leg and had a five day vet stay before he was home again. I have been there and there are better times on the other side.

I know it helps me to keep busy and focus on things that can be done now. Check if the vet office will allow you to visit and you can go say hi to comfort him and yourself. You can also call to check on him first thing in the morning and just before closing; my vet staff have never had a problem with me asking how my baby is doing.

Amputation is not the end of the world and recovery will likely be quicker. Because of how weight is distributed for cats they don't loose very much in terms of mobility when they loose a leg. So do not worry about that in the least. If they can't save the limb your cat will be fine.

If they can save it you will likely be given instructions for crate rest and confinement. I have actually dealt with two cats who broke legs and one with complications in healing. Even if your vet doesn't recommend crate rest; I would strongly encourage it. You can check offerup, craigslist, or any other community for sale locations for a crate or dog kennel now. That would give you something to do; finding, buying and getting the crate comfortable. You'd probably want a pad for the bottom to lay on, a small litter box and food and water dishes. If you end up not needing the crate you can always resell it and return any items you purchased for that direction. I was lucky enough that my vet loaned me the crate when I needed it but the rest I wasn't able to get in place for a few days.

You can also look critically at your balcony and figure out how to cat proof it. I wouldn't have expected a cat to jump or fall off a third floor balcony; that is not your fault in any way. But you can take steps now to figure out how to prevent it from happening again. It may be that you will need an enclosed catio on the balcony if there is no way to modify the area in a way to prevent accidents. I have seen people with netting from top to bottom to be safe because cats can and will climb up plants or hedges.

 

[1 bruce 1]

He's alive, he's alive, he's alive. He's seen a vet There's a reason to quietly celebrate if you're able to.
I've had more than one vet tell me that if a cat has a broken bone, and both bones happen to be in the same room at the same time, they will heal.
I don't know how bad this break is, but if they're able to keep him quiet and somewhat comfortable until Monday...things could be a lot worse. And I mean that.
I know you're upset and feeling really rotten, but just relax a bit. Breathe a little and realize that your cat could have a worse fate than this.
Kids, adults, dogs, cats, etc., break bones daily. It's annoying, it's not exactly "fun", but they heal.
When a 20 year old kid breaks a bone, they swear a little, get some down time, and heal up and go on like nothing happened. An 84 year old person might take a lot longer.
Your cat is 3. That's not old. Your cat has every chance ever to completely recover with your TLC and your vets help.
It'll be OK. It's normal to worry, but don't drive yourself mad with worry because that's my job.
Let us know how he is tomorrow please, and what the vet says on Monday!

 

[Jelly1995]

I know how hard it is. My boy went missing for four days, came home with a broken leg and had a five day vet stay before he was home again. I have been there and there are better times on the other side.

I know it helps me to keep busy and focus on things that can be done now. Check if the vet office will allow you to visit and you can go say hi to comfort him and yourself. You can also call to check on him first thing in the morning and just before closing; my vet staff have never had a problem with me asking how my baby is doing.

Amputation is not the end of the world and recovery will likely be quicker. Because of how weight is distributed for cats they don't loose very much in terms of mobility when they loose a leg. So do not worry about that in the least. If they can't save the limb your cat will be fine.

If they can save it you will likely be given instructions for crate rest and confinement. I have actually dealt with two cats who broke legs and one with complications in healing. Even if your vet doesn't recommend crate rest; I would strongly encourage it. You can check offerup, craigslist, or any other community for sale locations for a crate or dog kennel now. That would give you something to do; finding, buying and getting the crate comfortable. You'd probably want a pad for the bottom to lay on, a small litter box and food and water dishes. If you end up not needing the crate you can always resell it and return any items you purchased for that direction. I was lucky enough that my vet loaned me the crate when I needed it but the rest I wasn't able to get in place for a few days.

You can also look critically at your balcony and figure out how to cat proof it. I wouldn't have expected a cat to jump or fall off a third floor balcony; that is not your fault in any way. But you can take steps now to figure out how to prevent it from happening again. It may be that you will need an enclosed catio on the balcony if there is no way to modify the area in a way to prevent accidents. I have seen people with netting from top to bottom to be safe because cats can and will climb up plants or hedges.

Thank you so much for this detailed reply. I am so glad your kitties have recovered fully even despite any complications, and they certainly are lucky to have you. Unfortunately I can't cat proof the balcony as it's actually a communal balcony, my private balcony had been cat proofed as soon as I moved in but this one is a communal entrance to the various front doors of each apartment and my cat is notorious for jetting through the door as soon as I open it to go inside. Do you think this experience will deter him from ever trying it again

 

[Jelly1995]

He's alive, he's alive, he's alive. He's seen a vet There's a reason to quietly celebrate if you're able to.
I've had more than one vet tell me that if a cat has a broken bone, and both bones happen to be in the same room at the same time, they will heal.
I don't know how bad this break is, but if they're able to keep him quiet and somewhat comfortable until Monday...things could be a lot worse. And I mean that.
I know you're upset and feeling really rotten, but just relax a bit. Breathe a little and realize that your cat could have a worse fate than this.
Kids, adults, dogs, cats, etc., break bones daily. It's annoying, it's not exactly "fun", but they heal.
When a 20 year old kid breaks a bone, they swear a little, get some down time, and heal up and go on like nothing happened. An 84 year old person might take a lot longer.
Your cat is 3. That's not old. Your cat has every chance ever to completely recover with your TLC and your vets help.
It'll be OK. It's normal to worry, but don't drive yourself mad with worry because that's my job.
Let us know how he is tomorrow please, and what the vet says on Monday!

Thank you so much for your kind words and for reassuring me that these feelings are normal. The reaction I've had from friends has been quite blasé as they seem to think it's not a big deal for him to have a broken leg. Of course it is very common but as pet owners their suffering is hard to watch.

You are of course right, I'm not particularly religious in any way but I had found myself thanking god last night that he hadn't injured his spine or tail. I am so grateful that the universe is looking after my baby.

I will update you on Monday, thank you again

 

[Kieka]

Thank you so much for this detailed reply. I am so glad your kitties have recovered fully even despite any complications, and they certainly are lucky to have you. Unfortunately I can't cat proof the balcony as it's actually a communal balcony, my private balcony had been cat proofed as soon as I moved in but this one is a communal entrance to the various front doors of each apartment and my cat is notorious for jetting through the door as soon as I open it to go inside. Do you think this experience will deter him from ever trying it again

It depends on you cat. Just like some children burn their hand once and never touch flames again while other kids you will have to warn them off the next time too. I think with my cats it would be one who would forever stay away from the evil front door and one who would not even enter the room where the door is for a month then try darting out again a few months later.

If there is any way to set up screen door before the front door to create a second barrier that would probably be best. I know at my house we have door darters and a second door isn't an option. I open very slowly to see if there is a cat saying "back it up" then put a foot forward to gently move back anyone near the door. I do have the benefit of the door having a window so I can usually see where the cat is and once I make eye contact they stop trying to dart, mostly. You could get a laser pointer on your keychain and open it just enough to get your cats attention with that and move them away from the door. I know you'd sometimes have bags and items in your hands to complicate matters.

 

[Jelly1995]

It depends on you cat. Just like some children burn their hand once and never touch flames again while other kids you will have to warn them off the next time too. I think with my cats it would be one who would forever stay away from the evil front door and one who would not even enter the room where the door is for a month then try darting out again a few months later.

If there is any way to set up screen door before the front door to create a second barrier that would probably be best. I know at my house we have door darters and a second door isn't an option. I open very slowly to see if there is a cat saying "back it up" then put a foot forward to gently move back anyone near the door. I do have the benefit of the door having a window so I can usually see where the cat is and once I make eye contact they stop trying to dart, mostly. You could get a laser pointer on your keychain and open it just enough to get your cats attention with that and move them away from the door. I know you'd sometimes have bags and items in your hands to complicate matters.

Thank you, a screen door probably isn't now an option given the way the apartment doors are set out. I feel guilty leaving him inside all day so he was used to wandering outside now and again with my supervision, it will be difficult confining him but it is for the best. Just can't wait for him to get home now after seeing the state he was in at the vets today.

 

[Kflowers]

when you get him home he may scream to go out, but stay firm. Part of the scream will be 'You CHANGED something!!!" Most cats do adapt to changes, and part of him may well be grateful that he doesn't have to risk the dangerous place where he got hurt again. (He may not want you to know he's afraid of the balcony, particularly if he was hunting something - a bird perhaps - when he went over.)

Just be patience. Many have brought outside cats inside completely and they do adjust. Many of the cats have a good bit to say about it. If he scratches on the wooden door jamb, use mayonnaise to fix the scratches (spread on scratches, leave overnight, and wipe off with paper towels.)

AND I was really happy to hear that he was alive and that his injury was relatively minor.

PS When I broke my arm recently, they made me wait three days before they set it. It seems that's what hospitals do now. Hope vets will get past that, but thought you should know in case you worried about that later tonight.

 

[Jelly1995]

when you get him home he may scream to go out, but stay firm. Part of the scream will be 'You CHANGED something!!!" Most cats do adapt to changes, and part of him may well be grateful that he doesn't have to risk the dangerous place where he got hurt again. (He may not want you to know he's afraid of the balcony, particularly if he was hunting something - a bird perhaps - when he went over.)

Just be patience. Many have brought outside cats inside completely and they do adjust. Many of the cats have a good bit to say about it. If he scratches on the wooden door jamb, use mayonnaise to fix the scratches (spread on scratches, leave overnight, and wipe off with paper towels.)

AND I was really happy to hear that he was alive and that his injury was relatively minor.

PS When I broke my arm recently, they made me wait three days before they set it. It seems that's what hospitals do now. Hope vets will get past that, but thought you should know in case you worried about that later tonight.

Thank you. I am truly in awe of how kind everybody on this forum is. I have been worrying about him being in pain- I went to see him today and could not bear his cries, so I really do hope they operate on him with a sense of urgency. I am only conflicted about one thing- one vet thinks the leg can be saved and the other believes not.

If the surgeon comes in tomorrow and says amputation is necessary, the vets have said he can be referred to specialists if I want this to happen. I don't know whether this is the right thing to do. On the one hand I don't want him to have to face the trauma of being moved again and suffering more but on the other hand I do not want to give up the fight for his leg. I love him dearly so and do not want to give up on him, he is a strong boy and I know he would recover after a fracture repair. I feel so torn.

 

[Jelly1995]

Thank you. I am truly in awe of how kind everybody on this forum is. I have been worrying about him being in pain- I went to see him today and could not bear his cries, so I really do hope they operate on him with a sense of urgency. I am only conflicted about one thing- one vet thinks the leg can be saved and the other believes not.

If the surgeon comes in tomorrow and says amputation is necessary, the vets have said he can be referred to specialists if I want this to happen. I don't know whether this is the right thing to do. On the one hand I don't want him to have to face the trauma of being moved again and suffering more but on the other hand I do not want to give up the fight for his leg. I love him dearly so and do not want to give up on him, he is a strong boy and I know he would recover after a fracture repair. I feel so torn.

Sorry I should emphasise, referred on for a second opinion regarding whether fracture repair is possible

 

[1 bruce 1]

Hi all

My three year old cat fell from my third story apartment today. Poor baby completely broke both bones in the area from elbow to paw.

The hospital has him sedated on methedrone, as they can't do something until Monday (it's Saturday night today) when the surgeon arrives to review his case. They are not sure if surgery or amputation is required and I'm really not coping.

Since I arrived home without him I have been a mess, crying inconsolably and feeling empty. When I see his food bowls I physically break down wailing. I don't know what to do and I know I should be grateful that he is alive

Thank you. I am truly in awe of how kind everybody on this forum is. I have been worrying about him being in pain- I went to see him today and could not bear his cries, so I really do hope they operate on him with a sense of urgency. I am only conflicted about one thing- one vet thinks the leg can be saved and the other believes not.

If the surgeon comes in tomorrow and says amputation is necessary, the vets have said he can be referred to specialists if I want this to happen. I don't know whether this is the right thing to do. On the one hand I don't want him to have to face the trauma of being moved again and suffering more but on the other hand I do not want to give up the fight for his leg. I love him dearly so and do not want to give up on him, he is a strong boy and I know he would recover after a fracture repair. I feel so torn.

TCS is full of really good people.
His cries may have been communication with you and nothing more.
For now, try to relax and wait to hear from the surgeon and go from there.
And keep the long term goal in mind....amputation or not, getting him home!

 

[Jelly1995]

I have just spoken with the vets. Three surgeons have given their opinion and decided to try and save the leg. The break is in three areas so if at any point they can't fix the bad break, or if the ligaments are injured, they will have to amputate.

I am absolutely beside myself that this could've happened to my beautiful boy. But I am so grateful that they are willing to try and save his leg despite the chance of having to abort mission. The surgery will take place on Wednesday now so i will have to see how it goes. I just hope he will be ok if the front leg has to go- he is such a cheeky active cat and I would hate to see him slow down or struggling

 

[Kieka]

I have just spoken with the vets. Three surgeons have given their opinion and decided to try and save the leg. The break is in three areas so if at any point they can't fix the bad break, or if the ligaments are injured, they will have to amputate.

I am absolutely beside myself that this could've happened to my beautiful boy. But I am so grateful that they are willing to try and save his leg despite the chance of having to abort mission. The surgery will take place on Wednesday now so i will have to see how it goes. I just hope he will be ok if the front leg has to go- he is such a cheeky active cat and I would hate to see him slow down or struggling

Tripod cats do wonderfully and cats generally adjust very quickly. He will be back to his normal self so quickly it will surprise you even if they end up amputating the leg. This webpage may help you some, Three Legged Cat - Still A Great Peto. Som experiences from our members, Anyone Any Experience With Splints On Cats?, Back Leg Amputation, My beautiful babies.

Whatever the outcome, your baby is safe and will be home soon. Hang in there.

 

[1 bruce 1]

I have just spoken with the vets. Three surgeons have given their opinion and decided to try and save the leg. The break is in three areas so if at any point they can't fix the bad break, or if the ligaments are injured, they will have to amputate.

I am absolutely beside myself that this could've happened to my beautiful boy. But I am so grateful that they are willing to try and save his leg despite the chance of having to abort mission. The surgery will take place on Wednesday now so i will have to see how it goes. I just hope he will be ok if the front leg has to go- he is such a cheeky active cat and I would hate to see him slow down or struggling

Online friends told me of a dog that was medium sized and very active that was injured very badly, requiring the complete loss of his front leg up to the elbow.
He can no longer compete, but he still practices agility almost weekly and manages to be faster than a lot of the dogs. I don't know how he does it, but he does.
This is good news that they're hoping to save his leg, but if they can't, my guess is he'll adapt to it better than we would!

 

[Jelly1995]

Thank you all your kind thoughts, I really can't express how helpful you have all been at a time when I've felt so lonely. I will let you all know how it goes and no doubt be asking for recovery tips! So glad that communities like this exist out there.

 

[1 bruce 1]

Thank you all your kind thoughts, I really can't express how helpful you have all been at a time when I've felt so lonely. I will let you all know how it goes and no doubt be asking for recovery tips! So glad that communities like this exist out there.

It'll be a stressful time on your emotions but hang in there! He sounds like he's in excellent hands with three surgeons that know his case!

 

[PushPurrCatPaws]

He sounds like he will be in very good hands with the surgeon(s) and their nursing staff!

We'll be pulling for you!!

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[Jelly1995]

[QUOTE="PushPurrCatPaws, post: 4728990, member: 86370

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This made me tear up, the addition of Wednesday is so sweet. Thank you for being such good people

 

[PushPurrCatPaws]

Surgery Day, J Jelly1995 ​

Thinking of you and your kitty!

I've been through two leg surgeries with my cat, so I think I know of the nervous, scared feelings you might be having.

Keep us posted, if you are able!

 

[Jelly1995]

Surgery Day, J Jelly1995 ​

Thinking of you and your kitty!

I've been through two leg surgeries with my cat, so I think I know of the nervous, scared feelings you might be having.

Keep us posted, if you are able!

Thank you for your reassurance.

My baby was in surgery for seven hours (they estimated a 3-4 hour surgery but kept going for 7!) I am so grateful to them for doing everything they can, they did manage to save his leg!

I haven't yet seen him and I am not sure when I will be allowed, he had a fever last night but has eaten a little so that is reassuring. He will be coming home once he is off IV painkillers and is ok with just oral pain relief. He will also need 6 weeks of cage rest and weekly trips for bandage changing.

I am very apprehensive as I will have to go to university for a few hours each day, and my mum will be at work. Will he be ok in the cage at home alone? It is my first week on a new masters course so I really can't skip but if necessary I will take that step for him!

Does anybody have any general advice to help with nursing him back to health? I am anxious to have him home but also worried as I do not want him to be in so much pain.

Once again I can't thank all you wonderful people enough. The one good thing out of all this is I have found a community online where we can all share in our love of furbabies