As far as I know the only fix for a torn or ruptured cruciate ligament is
surgery.  I personally would take the cat to an orthopedic vet and have her
examined and get a definate answer on if it's torn or not.  If it is not
torn then restricting activity (no jumping) should heal it, but if it is
torn the longer you wait to fix it the worse it could get.

Celeste

Hi, I would certainly have Pandora checked with a vet who specialises
in orthopaedics - get the diagnosis right. If you have a kitten pen, or
a dog pen, then you can try and have Pandora in there with her litter
tray. Even if you can do that when you are say out at work (if you do)
- it will help rest the leg. I had a problem years ago with a rescued
kitten, and she spent quite a time in a kitten pen - it healed the leg
(it had been damaged, but our vet couldn't find the cause) - she went
on to have a long and happy limp free life. Hope things work out ok.
Lesley

Hiya Helen,

Some joints will stabilize without surgical intervention- but waiting to see
if the joint stabilizes on its own seriously increases the likelihood that
the cat will develop degenerative joint disease. If you allow the joint to
heal as it may it could leave the cat with a partially functional and
painful limb for life- even though joint may initially appear stable.  Its a
tricky injury. I'd opt for surgical repair as soon as possible.

http://maxshouse.com/Illustrations/cruciate_ligament_injury.jpg

You need to consult a specialist or a vet who has preformed a lot of
cruciate ligament repairs- most general practioners don't have a lot of
surgical experience with this type of injury or the rehabilitation and
physical therapy program that's necessary after the procedure . A wrong call
could leave the cat with a painful trick knee for life.

Speak to your vet about Adequan or Cosequin after the repair, to help
rebuild the joint.

Best of luck,

Phil