While dogs are more likely to experience orthopedic problems, cats also occasionally suffer from these illnesses and injuries.
Dogs seem to experience the lion’s share of orthopedic conditions and injuries, but that doesn’t mean cats are any less susceptible to these issues. There are plenty of reasons to keep an eye on your cat and watch for signs of orthopedic problems, joint degradation, or injury. Cats are experts at hiding pain, so it’s good practice to keep a close eye on your cat’s behavior and take note of anything out of the ordinary. This can help you notice problems earlier and get help right away.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation is a fancy term that describes the displacement of the kneecap. This condition is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in both dogs and cats. It describes a condition where your pet will experience displacement of the kneecap during physical activity which can cause pain and lameness in the affected limb. The condition can range from mild to severe. With mild and sometimes moderate symptoms, treatment may not be needed, or your veterinarian may prescribe pain meds to use as needed. When the condition is severe, surgery may need to be considered.
Arthritis
Cats can be affected by several different types of arthritis, but the most common is osteoarthritis, also referred to as degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease. Joints tend to degrade over time, and it is very common for older cats (and dogs) to develop osteoarthritis due to the cartilage in their joints breaking down over the years. The severity of the arthritis and the condition of the cat will be important factors in what your veterinarian determines to be the best course of treatment. These potential treatments could include limiting activity, weight loss (if the cat is overweight), warm compresses, anti-inflammatory medications, and even surgery.
Injuries
Many of us grow up with the saying, “Cats always land on their feet.” While it’s common to believe that cats are the epitome of grace and sticking the landing, we’ve all seen cat videos on the internet. Cats are as prone to falls and injuries as any other animal, and joint trauma can be a result of these mishaps.
Fractures, joint dislocations, and cranial cruciate ligament injuries are all somewhat common orthopedic injuries cats experience when subjected to physical trauma. If you suspect your cat has been injured from hyperextension or during a fall, it’s always a good idea to visit your primary veterinarian to have an examination and necessary testing done to rule out any significant injuries and get your kitty treated if any are found.
Trust Maryland Veterinary Surgical Services With Your Companion’s Health
Your companion’s health is important, and the team at MVSS is ready to provide the best care possible for your furry family. We are dedicated to combining comprehensive exams and assessments with informative and honest discussions of your companion’s care. Once we have worked with you to decide on the best course of action for your dog, our professionals will use their surgical expertise to work towards the goal of giving your companion an active and pain-free life. We are proud to serve loyal companions in Catonsville and Baltimore. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 410-788-4088 or visit us online. For more information and tips for pet health, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.