Phoenix having back and tail issues

We noticed our oldest cat, Phoenix, having back issues. We took him in to see the vet hoping for x-rays to be suggested. The vet said next time, and gave us joint supplements instead. Tonight we saw that his tail was doing something extremely weird. *picture it* He's laying on the floor on his side and his tail (at the top close to his body) is bent awkwardly and kind of stiff. And if I try to pet it in my hand it falls back down kind of hardly. It's very worrisome for me. I've made him another appointment for tomorrow because he needs to have x-rays done, which was what should have been done in the first place.

I am not sure if he will need surgery. Has anyone elses cats needed any kind of back surgery? He's still walking fine, and sometimes still trying to engage in play with his bro's. But I know he's aching because he cries a bit here and there - especially when laying down - and he's not as active.

Anyone able to shed any light?

No experience, just best wishes for a thorough exam today and a good diagnosis. I'm glad you're being so proactive. Good luck.

Don't have any advice on the subject but think you are a wonderful meowmy for Pheonix and getting to the bottom of the back pain. How was that vet visit? Hope he is doing better.

Turns out, nothing was wrong, at least that they saw. They did x-rays and nothing showed up. He was clean. So they deduced that he must be suffering the affects of arthritis. They gave him pain meds and we'll see how he does. He's back for a check-up in two weeks. He looks so dazed still from being under the sleep meds. Poor thing.

Awww poor thing ... I hope he feels better soon. it also could be from some sort of strain, which will recover with some rest.

Giving him his medication is impossible. Our other two boys take it with ease. Just hold em and push it down. Phoenix wont even open his mouth. He keeps that thing shut tight. He's also a major biter. So it has not been easy at all. Tried crushing in his food. He decided going without is better because he could taste it easily.

Not fun at all!

Will he do Pill Pockets - worked for me with Baytril and that's a big pill. Trick is to read the bag - you hold pocket with one hand, insert pill with the other, and close the pocket with the first hand, so no pill scent is left on the pocket. I also give them just empty pockets every now and again as a treat.

I will have to look into this pill pocket. Thank you!!!