What medicine is good for an Achilles tendon injury in a 9-10 month old cat?
Expert Answer
Treatment depends on the severity of the Achilles tendon injury. A complete rupture needs surgical repair, and medication alone is usually ineffective.
After repair, a hard splint externally fixes the joint to relieve pressure on the healing tendon, with activity limited for 3-4 weeks. After the splint is removed, use a heavy padded bandage or molded splint and keep it on for another 3 weeks.
Gentle physical therapy, such as passive bending and stretching, can then begin, followed by a gradual return to normal activity, since early weight-bearing hinders healing. For mild tendonitis, oral anti-inflammatory painkillers, restricted exercise, and physical therapy help; NSAIDs like firocoxib or meloxicam may be used but not long-term to avoid liver and kidney damage.