I am worried about a recent noticebal Limp in left Leg.

[cowboy215]

I'm concerned he may be in pain, which I read that cats tend to hide their pains, therfore,  I would like to hear about any effective pain medicines for cats?  His weight might seem too much, but he is big boned and heavily muscled.
My Vet, whom I trust(Great Guy! Has a Van, fully equipped, and comes to our home to treat both cats), has, when I have questioned him on diet, told me  that the daily tuna fish regimen(they receive around three heaping table spoons per day) coupled with their hard food, which is unrestricted access, is not harmful.  I spoil both cats, plenty of treats and they have never drank tap water.
I am postng this mainly because I would like a second opinion on all of the above.  Additionally, I don't want to kill my cats with Kindness, so to speak.

[Jim Humphries, B.S., D.V.M.]

Before we talk about pain relievers, you should get a diagnosis.  Sounds like you have a good relationship with your veterinarian.  I would ask that a complete physical exam be done and perhaps some x-rays to determine what is causing the limp.  Once you know that, you can discuss treatment options.  

Lameness can be caused by SO many things that any discussion of treatment is out of line until you know a cause.

As for diet, many cats free choice and do very well.  I've also had many clients that add a little tuna or fish type canned food to the dry food daily and is seems to help them eat and I can't see it doing any harm, as long as it is not their main diet.  

At 10 years of age you may want to look at his kidney and liver function to see what his health status is just in case you needed to make any dietary changes for his internal health.  

Good luck and stay cool down there!  

[Judy Karnia, D.V.M.]

Your veterinarian may need to sedate your cat in order to take the xrays.  If he has done an exam and some routine blood work this will not be dangerous for him.  It may be the only way that they can get a diagnostic xray.  You cannot be in the xray room with him. And they will need to hold him in a certain position which can be uncomfortable if he has arthritis or other cause for the limping.

22lbs sounds pretty big.  Only your vet can tell you if your cat is overweight.  There are body scoring charts to help judge.  I have not seen your cat so have no idea but many of my clients believe their cats are just big when they are overweight or obese.  If your cat is overweight, free choice dry food and lots of treats isn't good.  Being too heavy can make limb and joint problems worse.

Good luck with everything.

Judy Karnia, DVM
Scottsdale Cat Clinic

[cowboy215]

Thanks, I'll look into the low sodium tuna-did not know tuna in water had a sodium problem.  Both cats love Tom Thumb tuna in water(grocery chain, I believe their called Randall's out west).

[cowboy215]

     Thanks Doc, I was thinking X-Rays as well, but getting this "mountain lion" to the Office(no ray unit in the Mobile Unit) is taxing to him; I am the only one that can hold him and keep him calm.  When the vet comes and examines him gives him his shots, I have to hold him  and constantly talk to him.
    Anyway, it is what it is-thanks.  I'll get him an appointment and let you  know how it comes out.
                                         Thanks again & I do miss the Mile High City and it's cool evenings!