Clicking noises when walking

by Debbie
(Annapolis, MD.)

I have an 11 year old Traditional Siamese. About two months ago he started making a clicking noise while he was walking-didn't matter what the surface was (the bed, carpet, tile floor, wood floor etc.) he constantly made this noise when he walked.

He didn't seem to slow down any in his activity level, even jumping to the top of my 6 foot high bookcases like usual. I took him to the vet and she suggested it was his nails making the clicking noise (which I highly doubted) so she clipped his nails. She did a thorough exam of his legs and joints by feeling them and moving them around (no x-rays or other tests). Soon as we got home the clicking noise continued.

About a week ago the noise seemed to be getting worse and my cat seems to be slowing down a bit. I made an appointment with a different vet for a second opinion. I am very worried. What could this be?

Debbie in MD.

Answer by Kate
Hi Debbie, well unfortunately I have no idea as I am not a vet and have not come across this before. All I can say is it must be some sort of joint or cartilage problem. I am so surprised that the first vet did not suggest a xray at first, I always wonder why some vets treat pet owners like fools, like you say you would know if it was the claws on the floor etc.

All I can say is that you are doing the right thing in taking him for more tests.

I hope it is nothing which can't be sorted out quickly and easily.

best wishes Kate