Updated October 11, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: The Achilles tendon (common calcaneal tendon) connects the calf muscles to the heel bone of the back leg. When it’s injured, a cat usually walks with the hock (ankle) dropped toward the ground and may curl its toes. Most cases are caused by cuts or other trauma, and full tears usually need surgical repair followed by weeks of strict rest in a splint or cast. Home remedies can’t repair a torn tendon, so see a vet promptly.
Signs
- Walking with the hock sunk toward the ground (a “plantigrade” stance) on one back leg
- Toes curled under (“crab claw” stance) with some partial tears
- Swelling, a wound, or pain just above the heel
- Limping, or reluctance to jump
Achilles injury vs. diabetic neuropathy
Diabetic cats can also walk flat on their hocks, usually on both back legs, along with increased thirst and urination. An Achilles injury more often affects one leg and may follow an injury. Your vet can tell them apart with an exam, bloodwork, and imaging.
Causes
- Cuts and lacerations, such as from glass, metal, or fights
- Trauma from falls or being caught in something
- Degeneration of the tendon over time, sometimes with no obvious injury
When to see a vet
See your vet the same day if your cat has a wound above the heel, suddenly drops its hock, or can’t bear weight on a back leg. Tendons repaired soon after injury generally heal better, and open wounds need cleaning to prevent infection.
How vets diagnose it
Your vet will feel the tendon while flexing the leg and watch your cat walk. Ultrasound shows whether the tendon is partly or completely torn, and X-rays check for bone injuries.
Treatment
- Surgery to stitch the tendon back together or reattach it to the heel bone. This is the standard treatment for complete tears.
- Immobilization after surgery with a splint, cast, or external fixator, usually for about 6–8 weeks, keeping the tendon protected while it heals.
- Gradual return to activity over the following weeks, sometimes with physical rehabilitation.
- Pain control and antibiotics as your vet prescribes.
- Non-surgical care is sometimes an option for minor partial injuries, but still requires prolonged immobilization.
Home care during recovery
- Strict confinement: a large crate or small room with no furniture to jump on. Jumping can re-tear a repair.
- Keep the splint or cast clean and dry. Cover it briefly when your cat uses the litter box if your vet suggests it.
- Check it daily: call your vet for swollen or cold toes, a bad smell, wetness, slipping, or chewing at the bandage.
- Low-sided litter box and food and water within easy reach.
- A cone to stop your cat licking or chewing the incision or cast.
- Keep every recheck appointment for bandage changes and progress checks.
What to avoid
- Human pain relievers: acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin can be deadly to cats.
- Home splints or wraps: a wrongly placed bandage can cut off circulation.
- Letting your cat roam before your vet clears it, even if it seems to be walking well.
- Supplements marketed to “heal tendons”: none have been shown to repair a torn tendon in cats.
Frequently asked questions
Can a cat’s Achilles tendon heal without surgery?
A complete tear rarely heals properly without surgery. Some partial injuries can heal with long immobilization under a vet’s care.
How long is recovery?
Typically about 3 months or more, including 6–8 weeks of immobilization and a gradual return to activity.
Will my cat walk normally again?
Many cats regain good function after repair, though some keep a slightly dropped hock.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Tendon and ligament injuries in small animals
- Cervi M, Brebner N, Liptak J. Short- and long-term outcomes of primary Achilles tendon repair in cats: 21 cases. Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol. 2010
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Diabetic neuropathy in cats
- Cornell Feline Health Center: Diabetes mellitus
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.