Cat Illnesses - Radial Nerve Paralysis

Radial nerve paralyis is one of the more upsetting cat problems for owners. It occurs when the largest nerve in a cat's front leg is damaged or severed, and often the damage is irreversible. Causes include physical trauma and tumours.

The radial nerve is responsible for movement and sensation in a cat's front paw, so both will be lost in the event of radial nerve paralysis. The paw will be limp and the cat will be unable to extend the elbow or wrist. This results in the top of the paw dragging along the ground, causing external injury. An affected cat may also be withdrawn and in pain. Sensation in the lower part of the front leg is either severely lessened or absent.

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. The nerve may only be nipped or bent, in which case normal function should return in a few weeks. If the nerve fibres are broken but the protective sheath is intact, recovery may also be possible. In the case of a completely severed nerve, there is very little hope for recovery and amputation may be required.