The tail of the cat is an indispensable part of its personality. The tail of a cat is used for several purposes which include balance, communication, to keep warm, and for self-expression. While it may not be common, but rarely the tail of a cat falls off. Ever wondered why does a cat’s tail fall off? Let us try finding out.
A cat’s tail can fall off due to several reasons that include injuries and a medical condition. A few of the reasons can include an injury, fractured tail, nerve damage and necrosis. The most probable reason for the tail of a cat falling off is due to nerve damage.
Why does a Cat’s Tail Fall Off – 7 Possible Causes
A cat’s tail may fall off due to multiple reasons. With the help of experts, we have compiled a list of tail injuries that can result in the cat losing its tail.
1. Wound from Bites
The most common cause of cat’s tail fall is the wounds due to bites. This can happen when the cat is running away from the predator and the animal chasing it bites the tail. In most of the cases, the would may heal on its own and get better. However, there are cases when the tail may develop infections and the underlying tissue on the tail may get damaged.
I would suggest checking for the signs of infection soon after the bite. Some signs include redness, heat, pain and inflammation. If you suspect any infection, get the cat treated by the vet. The vet should be able to prescribe antibiotics and pain relief medications.
2. Skin infections
Yet another reason that can cause the cat to drop off its tail can be the skin infections. A couple of most common reasons for skin infections can be flea bites or allergic reactions. If there is any skin infection, you would find symptoms such as inflamed, red and itchy skin.
It is advised to avoid the antibiotic creams and ointments for flea allergies. Cats may lick and swallow the crems which may be dangerous for the cat’s overall health.
3. Abrasions
If you notice your cat has an abrasion at the tip of the tail or any other part, make sure to keep the cat indoors and monitor the wound. You can use hydrogen peroxide to keep the cat’s tail clean. If the abrasion is not much severe, it may heal with the minimal treatment.
However, the abrasions may get infected if you do not take proper care. I found my cat with tail issues and infection holding the tail a bit differently. If you have had a close bonding with your cat, you will find the difference clearly. If you suspect any infection or pain, make sure to get assistance from the professionals.
4. Degloving
It is possible that the cat might have been hit or dragged by a vehicle or something similar. Degloving happens when the skin is torn off from the underlying tissue of the tail. It can be very dangerous and can lead to fatalities. These injuries will need immediate professional attention.
Degloving injuries can be treated only with surgery. In most of the cases, you would need tail amputation up to the position where you would find normal tissue.
5. Fan belt injuries
Your cat might have slept under the engine of a car and when the car is started, you would find that the tail gets dragged inside the engine fan. It has been observed that this type of issues would cause paralysis and nerve damage. It is also possible that your cat may find it difficult to urinate.
The only treatment for fan belt injuries is amputating the tail. Like we already stated, the vet will inspect the tail and it will be amputated till the point where the nerves are intact. Most of the times, fan belt injuries lead to death.
6. Fracture
The primary reason for the fracture or dislocation of the til can be due to the accident with a vehicle. It can also be due to the tail stuck in the door. The drooping tail is one of the possible symptoms. The fracture can’t be identified through obvious means. Your vet will need to go through the x-ray to detect the fracture or dislocation.
If there is a minor tail fracture, you would find it healing on its own. But, thee are cases with serious injuries which may need amputation. However, the cat should be able to adjust to the after surgery effects and can continue to live without tail even after surgery.
7. Self mutilation
This is one off thee least common causes of tail dropping off in cat. This is typically called feline hyperesthesia syndrome. This is normally caused by the issues such as fleat allergies, food allergies and stress.
The condition can be treated with antibiotics and even steroids at times. The key is to avoid the chances of self-mutilation. You can use an Elizabethan collar to help avoid the cats chew on their tails.
A cat’s tail is likely to fall off, but it is quite a rare occurrence. If you find your cat’s tail falls off, it is most likely due to an injury or illness. If you find your cat’s tail falls off, it is important to consult your vet immediately. He should be able to check for any repair, or even consider treatment for eliminating any further damage.
Some of the reasons that a cat’s tail may fall off can include injury to the tip of the tail, an injury that might have cut off blood supply, and a broken tail.
Can a Cats Tail Fall Off Randomly?
It is possible that the cat’s tail may fall off randomly, but it is quite rare. It can happen due to injury or illness. If you find your cat has lost its tail, it is advisable to take it to the veterinarian. Some of the reasons that can result in causing the cat’s tail fall off randomly can include injury that might have cut off the blood supply, small cuts at the tip of the tail and the fracture or dislocation.
The minor tail fractures and falling off can heal on their own. However, if the injury is serious, the tail may have to be amputated. A surgery should not be a concern and most of the cats do continue to live normal without tail.
The Closing Thoughts
Well, the cat does not lose its tail randomly and without reason. Howevver. when it does, you would need to take proper cat of your cat and help him in the healing process. However, losing the tail can be a huge issue for your cat. It is advisable to look for the best options to avoid the possibility of your cat losing its tail.
Can a cat’s tail fall off?
Yes, while it may be very rare, a cat’s tail can fall off. It can happen due to a variety of reasons. Most possible reasons for this to happen is due to illness or injury.
Do cats need their tails?
The tail gives your cat the much majestic look when it moves around your home. That apart, a cat will need its tail when leaping or jumping. The tail also offers it a sensory input. Your cat also uses its tail for communicating.
What are cats with no tails called?
The cats with a missing tail are called Manx. They do not grow tails as a result of a genetic disorder. This can be the result of the inbreeding among a small population of cats.
Add Comment