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Walking on Hocks: A Sign of Diabests Mellitus
Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith
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Q. Why would a cat walk on his hocks?
 
A. Cats who walk or stand with their hocks on or close to the floor are said to have a 'plantigrade stance.' The most common cause for this uncommon condition is diabetes mellitus. Cats with certain nerve or muscle diseases may also tend to have this stance, but these instances are rare. If your cat has an abnormal stance such as this, make an appointment to have your cat examined by your veterinarian.
Illustration of normal cat hock vs. hock of a cat with diabetes mellitus

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