Cat Wheelchairs

When cats become paralyzed due to illness or trauma, many cat owners choose to euthanize their cats. However, cats do have the ability to adjust to disabilities. If a cat becomes paralyzed, the cat owner may want to ask the veterinarian if a cat wheelchair is an option.

Cat wheelchairs provide support for the hind legs of cats that have lost the use of their hind legs or have had their hind legs amputated. When a cat owner is shopping for a cat wheelchair, the cat owner should consider the needs of the cat. Depending on the type of injury or paralysis, the cat’s needs may be different than the standard cat wheelchair designs. In these cases, the cat owner may be able to discuss the cat’s needs with a company that manufactures cat wheelchairs. Some companies will create customized wheelchairs for cats.

Wheelchairs for cats vary in design. Some allow the cats to lie down and rest, while others may prevent a cat from doing so. Some cats become frustrated when trying to maneuver around corners because the wheels can become stuck. Some cats seem to have more difficulty using wheelchairs than others. The intended goal for a cat wheelchair design should be to provide the cat with the ability to move easily and rest when necessary.

Cat wheelchairs often have a harness that fits around the cat’s shoulders. This harness is connected to a rigid frame that fits along the sides of the cat. Another harness support is in the cat’s pelvic region or hips. The two wheels at the bottom of the frame are placed outside of where the cat’s rear paws would be if the cat could stand normally. Despite the rigid frame, some cat wheelchairs allow the cats to lie down.

A cat owner needing a cat wheelchair can ask the veterinarian for the recommendation of a manufacturer or search for one on the Internet. The measurements of the cat are often necessary when ordering a cat wheelchair to ensure that the wheelchair will fit the cat properly. The cat owner should be able to contact the company if a problem should arise.