Ask Dr. Fling

Q: Toby, my 13-year-old cat, had an old hip injury when I found him as a stray nine years ago. He sleeps on a heating pad which helps, but sometimes he really hobbles. Is there anything I can get over the counter to help? My brother told me that his vet prescribed baby aspirin for his cat. Is this a good idea?

A: Aspirin can be toxic to cats and can cause death if even minimal dosages are exceeded. Generally, aspirin is prescribed for cat only under very special circumstances. If Toby has not been evaluated by your veterinarian with radiographs, this would be a good idea to help understand the extent of the damage from the old trauma. Surgery may be an option to help relieve pain, or your pet's doctor may recommend one of a variety of medications, safer than aspirin, to keep your cat comfortable.