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Dedicated pet parents want to do what’s best for their tailmates, even when that involves a few extra challenges.
Some pets can be born with disabilities, or they may develop a health condition later in life. Either way, with the right care and attention, many of these amazing pets can lead fulfilling lives, giving us plenty of joy in return.
We’re going to take a close look at how to care for a disabled cat or dog, including home modifications for disabled pets and how to play with a disabled cat or dog.
What's considered a disability in dogs and cats?
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The term "disability" is used to describe a pet that is impaired in some way, either physically, mentally, or both.
This impairment can affect the pet’s ability to perform daily activities or interact with the world. Pet parents may need to make modifications so these pets can maintain good quality of life.
There's a huge array of disabilities that can affect cats and dogs, and we’ll explore some of these next.
Common and "hidden" disabilities in pets
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While there is often cross-over between some of these, disabilities can be broadly divided into two main groups
Common, visible physical disabilities in cats and dogs
Blindness: May be visible in pets born with eye abnormalities or that have had eyes surgically removed. But it can be a hidden disability in some patients, especially if the blindness has crept on gradually.
Brachycephalic syndrome: Flat-faced dogs can suffer with breathing difficulties.
Cleft lip and palate: May affect eating and breathing.
Congenital and acquired joint disease: Like hip dysplasia, patella luxation, and cruciate ligament tears.
Limb deformities or missing limbs: Amputees are just one example.
Neurological disorders: Like cerebellar hypoplasia, a condition often associated with feline parvovirus in cats. This leads to ataxic (wobbly) cats with balance issues.
Spinal cord disease: Which can cause issues like paralysis, weakness, or ataxia (wobbliness).
Common hidden disabilities in cats and dogs
Chronic health conditions: Epilepsy and diabetes require ongoing management and can affect an animal’s day-to-day life considerably.
Deafness: Pets can be born deaf, though it can also be acquired later in life.
Feline or canine cognitive dysfunction: Pet dementia, which occurs in senior pets.
Metabolic diseases: Including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (abnormal production of collagen causing fragile, loose skin).
How to care for a disabled dog vs. a disabled cat
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The exact care needs for a disabled dog vs. a disabled cat can vary depending on which health condition they need support with.
The following table gives a few examples for pets with visible mobility issues:
| Care area | For disabled dogs | For disabled cats |
|---|---|---|
| Mobility | Wheelchairs, lifting harnesses, outdoor ramps | Indoor ramps to couches, low-entry litter boxes |
| Hygiene | Expressing bladder outdoors, frequent bathing | Waterless shampoo, maintaining a clean perineal area |
| Mental care | Sniffing walks, cognitive games | Window perches, feather toys for low-mobility play |
Creating an accessible home for your pet
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The exact support your pet needs will depend on their condition but could include:
Blocking stairs with baby gates to prevent pets from accidentally falling.
Choosing accessories with your pet in mind, like low-sided litter trays and beds with easy access.
Creating non-slip flooring, for example, laying rugs on hardwood flooring.
Maintaining a consistent furniture layout in your home so that blind pets and those with cognitive decline can find their way around easily.
Providing ramps or steps to help pets access the car or your sofa.
Raising food bowls to help pets with neck strain or swallowing issues.
Our guide on pet-friendly home upgrades can help here.
How to play with a disabled dog or cat
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Mental stimulation is especially important for disabled pets. This can make the difference between them having a good, fulfilling life or not.
So, how do you play with a disabled cat or dog? Choose toys that are suitable for your pet’s abilities. For example, a blind dog may enjoy a squeaky toy or one that vibrates, whereas a deaf cat may appreciate something highly visual like a feather wand.
Use puzzle toys and feeders to keep them busy. Even if physically impaired, most pets can have a go at foraging for their food in a snuffle mat or licking soft food out of a rubber toy.
Chewing is a natural behaviour that releases endorphins, especially for dogs, so chew toys are great. Just make sure that chew items are not too hard; things like bones and antlers can cause painful tooth fractures.
Disabled pets can still take part in training, which is great for emotional bonding and mental stimulation. You might have to adapt your techniques, though; for example, a deaf dog can be trained to follow hand signals.
You can also bond with your pet through massage and gentle grooming sessions.
Adopting or fostering a special needs pet
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If you’re considering adopting or fostering a disabled pet, follow this question checklist:
Do you have the time and lifestyle to care for a pet with special needs?
Daily care for disabled pets can be more challenging, with frequent vet trips, special diets or medications and different exercise needs. For the right pet parent, a disabled pet can be very rewarding, but you must make sure it’s the right fit for you and your family.
Is your home suitable for a disabled pet?
A busy household with lots of visitors may not suit a pet with special needs. Also, think about the layout in your house and whether it can be adapted into a safe environment for a disabled pet.
Are you prepared for the costs involved?
It’s hard to give an estimate of the exact costs involved, as it will be very dependent on your pet’s health condition, as well as other factors like their size. Your pet may need access to regular veterinary checkups, medication, or physiotherapy. You may also need special equipment or home modifications. Over time, the costs of some health conditions can add up, too.
Do you have supportive friends or family?
Having the right support network around you will make all the difference. Not everyone will understand the needs of a disabled pet, which can be isolating for some pet parents.
Charitable support
If you feel like the answer to these questions is yes, then why not check out the following links and start the process of helping a pet with special care needs:
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