Quick answer: A cat limping without obvious distress likely has a minor sprain, paw wound, or early arthritis — but any limp persisting more than 24-48 hours needs vet evaluation.
Look carefully between the toes, at the paw pads, and at the nails. A small cut, splinter, thorn, or broken nail is a common and easily resolved cause. Cats are stoic and may not vocalize even from a significant wound — don't assume normal behavior means no pain.
A limp that comes and goes, or is mild while your cat is still eating, grooming, and behaving normally, suggests a minor strain. A limp that worsens, that your cat guards protectively, or that's accompanied by visible swelling, heat, or a wound needs prompt vet attention.
Arthritis is far more common in cats than previously recognized — most cats over 10 have some degree of it. It often shows as subtle reluctance to jump, stiffness after sleeping, or mild occasional limping without obvious pain behavior. Cats mask discomfort instinctively.
Check the paw carefully first. If there's no obvious external cause and the limp persists beyond 48 hours, see a vet — cats are stoic and what looks mild may be more significant than it appears.