My cat's back legs are bowed: what should I know?

Some young animals have changing limb alignment as they grow, while a persistent or newly noticed curve may involve the bones, joints, growth areas, or an old injury. Both legs being similar can suggest a developmental alignment pattern; one leg changing alone raises more concern for trauma or a local problem. Reluctance to jump, limping, hiding, licking a limb, or difficulty rising can indicate discomfort. A veterinarian may watch your cat walk, feel the joints, compare both sides, and recommend imaging when the alignment or bone structure is unclear.

Arrange a veterinary assessment and record when you first noticed the curve. Take short videos of walking, climbing, and sitting if the change is intermittent. Keep food, water, and resting areas easy to reach, and reduce high jumps until pain or instability has been checked. Do not straighten the legs, apply a tight wrap, or give human pain medicine. If a growing child or young animal is involved, paediatric physiotherapy may be discussed for movement and strength; an osteotomy is a corrective operation considered only when bone alignment needs surgical correction.

Seek urgent veterinary help if the bowing appeared after an accident, your cat cannot bear weight, cries when moved, has marked swelling, an open wound, a cold or pale paw, or suddenly becomes unable to walk. Book a routine appointment if the curve is gradually increasing, walking is becoming less steady, or activity is changing even without obvious pain.

Ask whether the alignment is appropriate for your cat's age and breed, whether both limbs are affected, and whether imaging is needed. Clarify how much activity is suitable, which signs should trigger an earlier review, and whether rehabilitation or corrective surgery has a role.