What to do if your cat breaks a bone

If your cat breaks a bone, it is recommended to take it to a pet hospital promptly for an X-ray examination to determine the degree of injury at the fracture site. Then, based on the severity of the injury, an appropriate fracture fixation plan can be formulated. There are generally two ways: external fixation or internal fixation. External fixation involves determining the location of the bone fracture through an X-ray, connecting the bones without surgery, and using a cotton board to fix the wound outside the body. Internal fixation requires surgery, involving treating the fracture with steel plates and screws.

Minor fractures

If your cat has a minor fracture, external fixation is usually adopted, using a cotton board to secure the wound. Then, the cat is confined to a cage for rest and limited movement. Oral calcium supplements can also be given to promote bone recovery. Meanwhile, keep the surgical site of the cat clean to prevent moisture or bites, and it is better to put an Elizabeth collar on the cat.

Additionally, medical treatment can be sought. For example, giving the cat calcium lactate, joint health supplements, etc., can strengthen the bones and promote bone growth. Some cats have strong self-healing abilities, and if the injury does not involve crucial areas, it will gradually heal.

Comminuted fractures

If the degree of the cat's fracture is severe and involves important areas such as the pelvis, surgical treatment is recommended. For example, internal fixation surgery is performed to connect the fracture site with steel plates and screws, then suture and allow it to heal slowly.

After an internal fixation surgery, it is advised to keep the cat in a cage to avoid movement within the environment. It is also recommended to take the cat to the pet hospital for regular check-ups after surgery to observe the recovery progress.

Note: The recovery time for a cat's fracture usually takes several months, and the older the cat, the longer the recovery time. If the cat shows obvious signs of pain during the recovery period, especially in the days following surgery, consult a professional pet doctor in a timely manner and use appropriate painkillers when necessary.