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Aortic thromboembolism (ATE / saddle thrombus)

A heart clot lodges in the hind-limb arteries β€” sudden paralysis, cold legs and severe pain; high mortality.

πŸ” Related symptoms

Typical symptoms ranked by diagnostic value β€” tap for the full symptom page

🚨Sudden hind-limb paralysis / cold legsExcessive yowling / night vocalizationRapid breathing (over 40/min at rest)🚨Labored breathing / open-mouth breathing

βœ… Home-care checklist

  • βœ“Go to a 24-hour animal hospital immediately
  • βœ“Avoid pressure on the hind limbs during transport
  • βœ“Do not heat or massage the affected legs

πŸ₯ When to see a vet

  • ⚠Sudden hind paralysis + cold paw pads + yowling = highest-level emergency

🐾 Predisposed breeds

Can occur in any breed β€” no specific predisposition

Not sure how serious it is? Assess it with the symptom checker

Start symptom check β†’