Joints are meant to move but sometimes they can get “stuck.” This is called vertebral subluxation complex or VSC.

What can cause my cat to have a vertebral subluxation complex (VSC)?

  • Transporting
  • Trauma
  • Lack of exercise
  • Obesity
  • Environment (where animal sleeps, flooring, heights etc)
  • Age
  • Collar/harness
  • Birthing process
  • Playing with other animal companions
  • Surgery or history of surgery, anesthesia

What are some signs that my cat has a VSC?

  • Refusing to go up or down stairs
  • Refusing or hesitant to jump on/off surfaces
  • Performance has decreased
  • Undefined lameness (after a veterinarian has assessed situation)
  • Stiffness
  • Animal sitting to one side
  • Preferring to lay on one side
  • Behavioral changes
  • Tail laying more to one side
  • Skin sensitivity (skin rumpling when being petted)