Dogs and cats of all shapes, sizes and ages use their tails to do a happy dance, mark their territory, balance or simply say hello. A pet's tail is a very important communication tool, but what happens if it becomes injured? Can dogs break their tails? What about cats?
The answer is yes, both dogs and cats can suffer from a broken tail, which actually occurs more often than you may realize.
VCA Animal Hospitals, and "soft discs cushion the spaces between the vertebrae and allow flexibility. The tail muscle and nerves facilitate tail movement and play a role in bowel control. This complex tail structure of bone, muscles, nerves and blood vessels can easily be injured." Some causes of tail breakage include falling, getting shut in a door, run over with a car or stepped on.
Because of the tail's vulnerability, it's important to know how to identify and treat a broken tail.
Signs of a Tail Injury
If you suspect that your dog or cat has injured their tail, check to see if the tail is bent, swollen or difficult to wag/raise — all are signs of a potential fracture. Other unusual behavior such as chewing on the tail, visible abrasions or lacerations or bleeding may be related to a different type of injury. In all cases, contact your veterinarian immediately.
A condition in dogs that may be confused with a fracture is "limber tail." As Pet Health Network explains, this "is a condition thought to be caused by overexertion, exposure to cold weather, swimming in cold water or excessive exercise without proper physical conditioning. Other possible causes include spending too much time in a crate (especially one that is too small) and climate changes." Limber tail symptoms are very similar to those of a broken tail—swelling, difficulty moving and pain—so be sure to bring your pup to the vet for a professional diagnosis.
Tasty Tips
Treatment and Recovery
Tail breaks can either be "open" (exposed bone) or "closed" (skin isn't lacerated) and, like humans, dogs and cats can have hairline fractures. In addition to a physical exam and perhaps a blood test, your vet will use an x-ray to determine the type of break.
Taking your dog or cat straight to the vet is best, but, as Trupanion points out, you can help by placing him on a flat surface "that you can use to transport the pet from place to place. It's also a good idea to secure the pet to the surface with a blanket or towel." Keeping a stash of large, old towels around is a great idea for any pet owner, as they have multiple uses such as this.
A warm compress can help reduce swelling, but never give your pet any medicine that is meant for humans. Your vet will prescribe the proper medication, if necessary—one that's formulated for animal pain management.
The tail is actually an extension of the spine and is composed of bones that become smaller the closer they are to the tip, notes VCA HospitalOnce your pet's fracture is diagnosed, possible treatments may include setting the bone or surgery. Don't be surprised if your fur baby comes home wearing a large cone to prevent licking, chewing, or biting the injured area.
Prevention
So, can dogs break their tails? Yes, and certain dogs are more susceptible to breaks than others because of their breed or group. Hunting and working dogs, like the American Foxhound, have boundless energy and can get into mischief. As for cats, as many pet parents know, cats have great agility and love to jump onto high surfaces — making them more susceptible to injure themselves.
While you can't change your pal's temperament or instinct, you can ensure that your home is safe from potential hazards, including knowing where your pet is at all times to avoid accidental injuries. Keeping their bones and joints healthy also goes a long way to prevent breaks, especially in older animals.
Pet health experts agree that you should never attempt to fix a broken tail at home. If your regular vet isn't available, bring your pet to the nearest 24-hour emergency care facility. A vet visit is the only way to determine the specific injury and get proper care for your beloved furry friend.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Indoor Chicken Recipe
Healthy digestion for easy litter box clean-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult Entrée Variety Pack Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice cat food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Chicken Dinner cat food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Small & Mini Chicken, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
Delectable chunks with tender tuna smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Cat Food Variety Pack, Chicken & Beef, Salmon & Tuna 2.8 oz. pouch, 12 pack
These irresistible foods are specially formulated to support digestive health, nourish skin & promote a lustrous coat.
null Hill's Science Diet Kitten with Salmon
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced salmon to help build immunity and a healthy digestive system
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Beef Entrée Cat Food
Delicious taste of gourmet minced beef in precisely balanced nutrition. Provides a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity level.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the faster metabolism of Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Savory Entrée Can Variety Pack
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Paws Chicken & Barley Entrée
Chicken & Barley recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small & Mini Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Low calories for less active small & mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful fur for adult cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Urinary Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entrée cat food
Supports the health of the whole urinary system with optimal levels of magnesium
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Hearty Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Related articles
Can Dogs and Cats Eat Butter?
Learn all about whether butter is safe for your dog or cat and what to do if they eat it.
Can Dogs & Cats Have Avocados? (& Are They Safe?)
Even though avocados are healthy for humans, discover whether they're safe for dogs & cats (including details on potentially harmful ingredients for pets).
Pet Sitter Checklist: 7 Essential Items
If you have a new sitter for your furry friend, use our pet sitter checklist to ensure they know your pet's essential info & exactly how to care for them.
My Pet Ate a Lizard — What Should I Do?
Learn what to do if your pet eats a lizard, including whether they can be toxic and symptoms to keep an eye on when they've swallowed one.
Carbohydrates
What Cleaning Products Are Safe for Pets?
Learn which cleaning product ingredients can be hazardous for dogs & cats, which alternatives are safer and tips for using cleaning products around pets.
The Incredible Science Behind Your Pet's Microbiome
Learn what a pet's microbiome is, how it contributes to your pet's gut & overall health, and why nutrition is important in maintaining healthy microbiomes.
Bonded Pair Cats and Dogs Can Be Double the Fun
Learn about the special relationship between bonded pairs of cats & dogs and why it's a great idea to adopt both of them together.
Easy DIY Dog & Cat Toys: Nine of Our Favorites
Browse this comprehensive guide for several of our favorite DIY dog and cat toys that are sure to put a little pep in your pet's step.
Secondhand Smoke and Pets: What You Need to Know
Learn how secondhand smoke affects your pets, including signs that smoking is affecting them, and why smoking around animals is dangerous to their health.
Antioxidants
Understand the importance of antioxidants in your dog or cat's food, and how they can help protect your pet and keep them healthy.
Can Dogs and Cats Eat Ham?
With ham & pork products being popular holiday foods, learn how safe it is to give your dog or cat table scraps like ham, bacon and other pork products.
Dog and Cat Urine Crystals: What You Need to Know
Crystals in your pet's urine can be common, but can also indicate a deeper health concern. Learn about the different types of crystals & what they mean.
Benefits of Antioxidants in Pet Food
Discover how antioxidants fight against free radicals in your dog or cat's body, and why they are so important to your pet's diet.
Cat and Dog Food for Skin and Coat Health | Hill's Pet
Learn nutrition's role in your pet's skin and coat health, as well as tips for choosing the best dog or cat food for a healthy coat.
When Should You Consider Putting a Pet Down?
Learn important signs & factors to consider when deciding if it's time to put a pet down, including severity of an illness, physical restrictions, & more.
Cat & Dog Drinking Water: Which Water Sources Are Safe for Pets?
Learn which water sources, such as tap water, pool water and water from a shared bowl, are safe for your pets to drink, as well as which ones to avoid.
My Cat Hates My Dog: What Should I Do?
Learn the real reasons why your cat has aggression toward your dog, including types of aggression, why it happens, and tips for helping them get along.
What Human Food Does to Your Pet: Human Caloric Equivalents
Use this this human food equivalent chart to see what effect feeding your pet table scraps really has on their daily caloric intake.
What Should I Do With My Pet When I Travel?
Learn helpful tips if you're considering leaving your pet when going on holiday, including ideas for who can watch them, options for boarding them & more.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.