Over the counter medication for cat

[forestdweller]

I have an 11 year old female cat who recently pulled a muscle in her right rear leg.  Not sure if this is important but about 6 years ago she had to undergo surgery for a dislocated right hip as a result of what my vet said could of been by being hit by a car.  In playing, my dog chased her and it looked as though she tweaked her leg a bit.  She doesn't seem to be in any pain but she is limping.  Is there an over the counter medication that I could give her as an analgesic to help if there is any pain and swelling?

[Aleda M Cheng, D.V.M.]

Please don't use anything OTC for cats.  Some human medicines can be deadly for cats.

Most soft tissue injuries will heal on their own.  If your cat is eating and drinking normally, and has a relatively normal activity level despite the limp than allow her to heal on her own.  If however, the limp does not abate in 10 days to 2 weeks you should visit your veterinarian for medical diagnostics (X-Rays, palpation, etc).  If the limp worsens at any time than you must see your veterinarian ASAP.  Your veterinarian has some pain, and anti-inflammatory medications suitable for cats.  Acupuncture is also a very effective adjunctive treatment.