questions and concerns about my little kitty

[Natasha]

I have a 9 month old cat that I love to death, but lately I've been worried. I got her from some people that had gotten her from friends. She was thought to be a form of manx, but I really don't think so. She has no tail whatsoever. She hops aroung like a bunny and I got to noticing that when she tries to walk normally she walks kinda crooked. Her right hip and leg seem to be turned outward more than the left. She doesn't appear to be uncomfortable or have any trouble getting around, but I keep her inside at all times. People have told me she is just lame and wouldn't live long which scared me. I plan on taking her to get fixed in the next month, but I'm scared that a vet will tell me she isn't normal and should be put to sleep. My main concern is that lately I've noticed that she pees in her sleep. Is this a normal cat problem? I've never had a cat do this and can't seem to find information anywhere. If someone could give me any advice about my question I would be very grateful.

[jason]

My main concern is that lately I've noticed that she pees in her sleep. Is this a normal cat problem?

dont think this is normal, but it sounds like just poor bladder control although im not aware of how serious it can be.

i suppose a slight irratation (possible uti) could cause this. hopefully someone else here can shed some light on what this might be, haven't had this happen before with my cats.

at any rate, its certainly something to discuss with your vet....and i would recommend a much sooner visit for the first/initial evaluation anyhow.

[Traci]

Not knowing the history of this kitty, it's impossible to wager a guess, but a vet exam will tell you more. It could be that she is indeed a manx, or it could be that she suffered a trauma previously and lost her tail either through a traumatic incident or that it was amputated by a vet as a result of serious injury.

Some manx kitties do indeed have occasional urination or bowel problems due to the nature of loss of tail nerves, spinal defect, etc, it is usually most prominent after birth or during early growth and development. Proper diet, medications to control incontinence or bowel function can help greatly, and most manx kittens overcome the problems as they mature. Only your vet can make the determination as to whether or not incontinence or something else might be problematic.

As Jason mentioned, a UTI is also a strong possibility, in any event, please get your kitty examined by your vet so that you know her general health condition.