Adopted a cat-got her home--she has hind leg weakness :(

I went the the animal control shelter today in our county. Fell in love with a calico kitty. She had some hair missing on either side but I thought maybe it was stress. I see now she is gimpy in the back legs. She walks like a german shepherd. She is real boney down there also. I called the shelter back and told them this and they said I could get a refund or exchange. Problem is they will put her down because of this gimpyness. They said they did not notice she had back leg weakness. I feel awful. Our litter boxes are thru a kitty door to the garage with the litter boxes up on little table. Not sure that would work for her. Not sure what to do. Crying here. 

Robin

can you take her to the vet? that might help with your decision. in the mean time, can you put on litter box on the floor in the garage? sounds like stairs or a ramp to the table top would not work.

are there any other symptoms?

You definitely have a decision to make.

I too suggest starting with a vet visit. There are several different causes for myopathy (muscle weakness.) Even with a general physical and neurological exam, the vet should be able to help guide you.

I have a 10 month old kitten that came into our rescue at 8-9 weeks of age. He presented with severe muscle atrophy in his left leg and was completely plantar in the foot as well. We initially thought just a ruptured achilles's tendon (he had surgery for that at 12 wks of age) but, we realized after his recovery period was over (3 mo total) that he had neurological issues as well.

Achilles (yes, that is his name!) has had 2 MRIs, EMGs and several neurological exams. We don't have a definitive diagnosis; but, we have a treatment protocol in place which includes physical therapy, steroids and the use of leg braces. He's doing very well right now and I hope to get him certified to be a therapy animal in the near future.

I have no idea if your kitty has anything similar to mine. But, cats can have a very good quality of life.

I also like the suggestion of a ramp or steps in order to access the litter box!

I would def take her to the vet to see what is wrong before you make any decision. I'm sorry

Thank you for your replies. I notice her tail is stiff also except for the last 6 inches. I think they call that "rope tail". I think you are all right and she deserves a vet visit at least. 

Thank you, 

Robin J