TL;DR: Difficulty climbing stairs is usually a sign of chronic pain or aging and warrants a veterinary exam, though it only becomes an emergency if your cat shows sudden paralysis or extreme distress.
What does it mean if my cat has difficulty climbing the stairs?
When a cat has difficulty climbing stairs, it typically indicates physical discomfort, stiffness, or a loss of strength. Common signs include:
- 'Bunny-hopping' or using both back legs at once
- Pausing frequently between steps
- Complete avoidance of staircases
- Decreased range of motion or weight-bearing capacity
Is my cat’s difficulty climbing stairs a medical emergency?
The urgency level for this issue is generally Low, as it often involves chronic conditions like osteoarthritis or muscle atrophy. However, it may be an emergency if accompanied by:
- Total loss of limb function or paralysis
- Vocalizing or crying out in pain
- Sudden, severe lethargy
Why should I take a video of my cat to help with veterinary triage?
Providing a video of your cat attempting to navigate stairs is highly beneficial for a diagnosis because:
- Cats often hide pain or 'act normal' at the clinic due to adrenaline.
- The vet can observe specific gait abnormalities in a natural home environment.
- It helps differentiate between joint pain, soft tissue injuries, or neurological weakness.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
To assess the cause of a cat's difficulty climbing stairs, evaluate neuromuscular function and gravitational control. Observe the cat's ability to correct itself during a drop test from 10-20 cm; affected cats will land heavily with poor head control. Also, assess muscle strength by observing the cat jumping up to and down from a cage.
Chapter: Emergency, General Principles, Cardiopulmonary
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 1659)