Improving Cat Mobility: Home Remedies for Paresis In Cats
Updated: May 31
We will explain the difference between Paresis and Paralysis in cats. In addition to a list of Budget-Friendly Homemade Solutions for Cats with Paresis
Have you ever noticed your furry friend struggling to move their limbs or experiencing muscle weakness? If so, it's important to understand the difference between paresis and paralysis. While both may have similar symptoms, they require different treatment approaches. We are happy to say that with proper care and some home physical therapy exercises, cats with paresis can significantly improve their mobility. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between paresis and paralysis and share some affordable homemade solutions for helping cats with paresis get back on their feet!
What is paresis in cats?
Paresis in cats refers to a partial loss of muscle function or weakness that affects their ability to move or control their movements. Various factors, including nerve damage, spinal cord injuries, infections, or other underlying medical conditions, can cause it.
Some common symptoms of paresis in cats include difficulty walking or standing, limping, dragging of limbs, weakness in one or more limbs, and loss of coordination. Cats with paresis may also have difficulty controlling their bladder and bowel movements.
Diagnosing paresis in cats typically involves a thorough physical examination by a veterinarian and diagnostic tests such as blood tests, X-rays, or MRI scans. The underlying cause of the paresis will determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Paresis in cats can be treated with medication, physical therapy, or surgery, depending on the cat's condition. Paresis may also be a symptom of more serious underlying conditions.
It's important to seek veterinary care if you suspect your cat is experiencing paresis or any other type of muscle weakness or mobility issues. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce any risk of complications.
What's the difference between paresis and paralysis?
Paresis and paralysis are both conditions that affect a person's ability to control their muscles. Still, they differ in their severity and the extent of muscle weakness.
Paresis is a condition of a partial loss of muscle function or weakness. This means that the muscles may still have some strength but are not as strong as they should be, and the person may have difficulty controlling them. Paresis can affect any body part, and its severity can range from mild to severe.
Paralysis, however, is a more severe condition in which muscle function or movement is lost. This means that the affected muscles cannot move, and the cat has no control over them.
The causes of paresis and paralysis can vary. Still, they are often related to nerve damage or diseases that affect the nervous system. Sometimes, paresis may be a temporary condition that can be treated with physical therapy. At the same time, paralysis may be permanent and require ongoing care and support.
Home exercises that can help cats with paresis
Physical therapy can be an effective solution for cats with paresis, as it can help improve their muscle strength and coordination. Here are some physical therapy exercises that may be recommended for cats with paresis:
Passive range of motion
Such exercises involves gently moving the cat's limbs through their full range of motion to help maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness. Bicycle each cat leg for about 5 minutes, and repeat it twice daily. It is important to keep the legs flexible and avoid the development of joint contractures.
Assisted standing and walking exercises
These exercises involve supporting the cat in a standing or walking position to help improve its balance and coordination.
Balance and coordination exercises
Balance exercises involve placing the cat on a balance board or other unstable surface to help improve its balance and coordination.
Strengthening exercises
Strengthen your cat's muscles using the resistance method, which improves its overall muscle tone. Let your cat lie on one side and press on the bottom of the feet while your pet resists you and pushes back.
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is a kind of exercise that involves using water to support the cat's weight and reduce the strain on its muscles and joints. Hydrotherapy can be particularly helpful for cats with severe paresis or those with mobility issues.
Working with a qualified veterinary professional is important to develop an appropriate physical therapy plan for your cat with paresis. The specific exercises and techniques will depend on the cat's needs and the underlying cause of their paresis.
Homemade Solutions for Paresis in Cats
There are some homemade remedies that you can prepare at home to help improve your cat's comfort and mobility. It's important to note that these remedies should not replace veterinary care and treatment but can be used with medical treatment to help support your cat's recovery. Here are a few examples:
Anti-inflammatory remedies
If your cat's paresis is from an injury, then anti-inflammatory remedies can be used to reduce inflammation and the pain due to it. Turmeric is one of these remedies as it contains a potent anti-inflammatory component known as curcumin.
Food rich in Omega-3 fatty acids
Also, your cat's food should contain Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation and support a healthy nervous system. Fish oil is one of the most known sources of omega-3 fatty acids, or you can use hemp seed oil instead if your cat is allergic to fish and fish products.
Other home measures to improve your cat's mobility
Make sure your cat has a soft and supportive bed, and avoid placing their bed or other resting areas on slippery surfaces.
You can provide a supportive harness or sling to help them move around. You can also create ramps or steps to help your cat navigate stairs or other obstacles.
Encourage exercise: While strenuous exercise should be avoided, gentle exercises, such as passive range of motion or assisted standing and walking, can help improve your cat's mobility and muscle tone. Consult with a veterinary professional before starting any exercise program.
Make sure to keep your cat's fur clean and free of mats or tangles, and trim their nails regularly to prevent your cat from getting caught on surfaces.
Suppose your cat is experiencing paresis or any other health issue. In that case, seeking veterinary care as soon as possible is important. A veterinarian can determine the underlying reasons for your cat's paresis and develop an appropriate treatment plan to help improve their condition. It's important to remember that while these measures can help improve your cat's quality of life, they are not an alternative to veterinary care and treatment.
Medications For Paresis In Cats
Yes, some medications can help with paresis in cats, depending on the condition's underlying cause. The prescribed medication will depend on the cat's needs and the underlying condition causing the paresis. Examples of medications that can help include anti-inflammatory medications, pain medications, muscle relaxants, and antibiotics.
It's important to mention that all medications have potential side effects, so it's important to work closely with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate medication and dosage for your cat's specific needs. Additionally, medications should always be used with other treatments, such as physical therapy or surgery, as part of a complete treatment course for your cat's paresis.
How to tell that my cat has paresis?
Paresis in cats refers to a partial loss of muscle function or weakness that can affect their ability to move or control their movements. Here are several signs that your cat may be experiencing paresis:
Difficulty walking or standing: Cats with paresis may have trouble walking or standing and appear wobbly or unsteady.
Dragging of limbs: Cats with paresis may drag one or more of their limbs when they walk or may have difficulty moving them altogether.
Loss of coordination: Paresis causes cats to have difficulty coordinating their movements and to appear disoriented or unsteady.
Limping: Cats with paresis may limp or favor one side of their body.
Incontinence: Cats with severe paresis may have difficulty controlling their bladder and bowel movements.
Muscle atrophy: Over time, paresis can cause muscle atrophy, or a loss of muscle mass, in the affected limbs.
If you notice any sign of the signs mentioned above or any other unusual behavior on your cat, it's important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Several underlying conditions can cause paresis, some of which require immediate medical attention. You can consult a veterinarian to define the underlying cause of your cat's paresis and develop an appropriate treatment plan after a thorough physical examination and diagnostic tests.