Acute Trauma (Falls, Car Injury, Physical Injury)
Overview
Cats frequently suffer trauma from falls, vehicle strikes, or attacks. Even if they appear normal initially, internal injuries are common and can be life-threatening.
Cats can mask pain, making trauma especially dangerous.
Symptoms
- Limping or inability to walk
- Rapid breathing
- Bleeding (external or internal signs)
- Lethargy or hiding
- Unequal pupil size (head trauma)
- Collapse
Causes
- High-rise falls (“high-rise syndrome”)
- Road accidents
- Dog attacks
- Blunt force injury
Treatment
- Oxygen therapy
- IV fluids for shock
- Pain management
- Imaging (X-ray, ultrasound)
- Surgery if internal injury or fractures exist
When to See a Vet
👉 Immediately after any trauma event — even if symptoms seem mild.
Prevention
- Window screens
- Indoor safety for high-risk environments
- Supervised outdoor access
References
- AVMA: https://www.avma.org
Merck Vet Manual: https://www.merckvetmanual.com