As pet parents, we know our pets better than anyone. We know their personalities, quirks, and the way they move. So, when your dog is limping after a long walk or your cat seems hesitant to jump onto their favorite perch, it’s natural to wonder: Is it just a minor tweak, or something more serious?
Orthopedic issues in pets are more common than many people think, and early attention can make a major difference in outcomes. Here’s what to know.
What Limping Can Mean in Pets
Limping (also called lameness) is a sign that something is affecting your pet’s ability to bear weight normally. The causes can range from minor to severe, including:
- Soft tissue injuries (sprains or strains)
- Arthritis or joint inflammation
- Ligament tears (like ACL injuries)
- Fractures or bone trauma
- Hip dysplasia
- Luxating patella (dislocating kneecap)
- Spinal or nerve issues
In some cases, the limp may come and go or only appear after exercise. But even intermittent signs can point to deeper orthopedic concerns.
When to Wait vs. When to Call the Vet
While not every limp is an emergency, there are signs that warrant a call or even an immediate visit to your veterinarian.
You may be able to monitor at home for a day or two if your pet:
- Has a mild limp but is still weight-bearing
- Is eating, drinking, and behaving normally
- Doesn’t show signs of pain when you gently check the limb
Call your vet promptly if your pet:
- Suddenly stops bearing weight on a leg
- Cries out, pants excessively, or seems in obvious pain
- Has swelling, heat, or bruising in a limb
- Has a history of injury or known orthopedic conditions
- Shows stiffness or trouble getting up, especially after rest
Cats, in particular, are great at hiding discomfort. Subtle changes like hesitating to jump or favoring one leg can signal real pain.
Signs Your Pet May Be Dealing With a Joint or Bone Injury
Beyond limping, other red flags for orthopedic issues include:
- Reluctance to run, jump, or climb stairs
- Stiffness after rest or exercise
- “Bunny hopping” or abnormal gaits
- Clicking or popping sounds from joints
- Muscle loss in one limb or side of the body
- Licking or chewing at a particular joint
These signs can indicate anything from arthritis to ligament damage or hip dysplasia; these are all conditions that benefit from early diagnosis and treatment.
The Importance of Early Detection
The sooner orthopedic issues are diagnosed, the more treatment options are available and the better the outcome for your pet.
Your veterinarian may recommend a physical exam, X-rays, or advanced imaging to identify the problem. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment could include rest and medication, physical therapy, or in some cases, orthopedic surgery. The good news? Many pets recover beautifully with the right care plan in place.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If your pet has been limping or showing signs of pain, don’t wait give us a call. Whether it’s a minor injury or something that needs a more advanced approach, we’re here to help your pet move comfortably again.
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Early detection = better outcomes. Let’s get your pet back on their paws, pain-free.
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