Watching your beloved pet struggle with pain or discomfort can be heartbreaking, especially when you’re not sure what’s wrong. Orthopedic injuries in pets are more common than many pet parents realize, and recognizing the early warning signs can make all the difference in getting your furry friend the care they need. Whether it’s a simple strain from an enthusiastic game of fetch or something more serious like a torn cruciate ligament, understanding what to look for can help you act quickly and effectively.
At Broadway Veterinary Hospital, we understand the importance your pets hold in your life. Our team of UC Davis-trained veterinarians, including our orthopedic expert, Dr. Tyler, has extensive experience in orthopedic care, ranging from simple sprains to complex surgical repairs like TPLOs for cruciate tears, MPL repairs for dislocating kneecaps, and fracture repairs for broken bones. We’re here to help you understand what to watch for and when to seek professional care.
Understanding Common Orthopedic Injuries in Pets
Orthopedic injuries affect your pet’s bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These injuries can range from minor muscle strains to severe fractures or torn ligaments. Dogs are particularly prone to cruciate ligament tears, especially larger breeds, while cats often suffer from injuries related to falls or fights with other animals.
Age plays a significant role in orthopedic health. Young, active pets might suffer acute injuries from play or exercise, while older pets may develop arthritis or other degenerative conditions that affect their mobility over time. Certain breeds also have genetic predispositions to specific orthopedic problems, making regular monitoring even more important.
1. Changes in Movement and Mobility
The most obvious signs of orthopedic problems often show up in how your pet moves. Research shows that one in five dogs experience joint pain and mobility issues, which can frequently be observed in their gait. You might notice your dog hesitating before jumping onto the couch or your cat avoiding their favorite high perch. Limping is an obvious red flag, but it’s not always a constant issue. Some pets will limp only after exercise or first thing in the morning, then seem fine later in the day.
Watch for subtle changes, too. Your normally energetic pup might start lagging behind on walks, or your cat might begin using the stairs more slowly. These gradual shifts in mobility can be early indicators of developing orthopedic issues. Some pets develop a “bunny hop” gait when both hind legs are affected, or they may consistently favor one side over the other.
You should also pay attention to how your pet gets up and down. Difficulty rising from a lying position, especially after rest, can indicate joint stiffness or pain. Similarly, reluctance to lie down or constant shifting while resting might signal discomfort.
2. Behavioral Changes That Signal Pain
Pets are masters at hiding pain, but their behavior often tells the real story. A pet experiencing orthopedic discomfort may become less social, preferring to stay in quiet spots rather than participating in family activities. They may also show increased irritability, snapping, or growling when touched in certain areas, especially around the affected limb or joint.
Some pets become more clingy when they’re hurting, seeking extra comfort from their favorite humans. Others might hide or seem depressed, losing interest in activities they once enjoyed. Changes in appetite can also indicate pain, as discomfort often affects a pet’s desire to eat.
Sleep patterns may change as well. Pets with orthopedic pain may have trouble finding a comfortable position, which can lead to restlessness at night. You might notice your pet changing sleeping spots frequently or seeming unsettled during rest periods.
3. Physical Signs Your Pet May Have an Orthopedic Injury
Beyond limping, there are several physical indicators of orthopedic problems that you can observe during your daily interactions with your pet, including:
- Swelling around joints or limbs
- Visible deformity or abnormal positioning of the legs
- Reluctance to put weight on a particular limb
- Difficulty rising from lying down
- Stiffness, especially after rest periods
- Trembling or shaking when standing or walking
- Excessive panting when not hot or after minimal exercise
- Muscle atrophy or visible loss of muscle mass in affected areas
Your pet may also exhibit excessive licking or chewing in a particular area, which can indicate localized pain or discomfort. This behavior can sometimes lead to secondary skin problems if left unchecked.
4. Activity-Related Warning Signs
Monitor your pet during their regular activities for signs of orthopedic issues. During walks, notice if your dog consistently pulls toward one direction or seems to favor certain surfaces. Some dogs with paw or leg pain prefer grass over concrete, or vice versa.
Watch how your pet navigates stairs, furniture, or other obstacles. Reluctance to use stairs, jumping onto furniture, or getting in and out of cars can all indicate orthopedic discomfort. Cats might stop jumping to their usual perches or begin using alternative routes to reach high places.
Changes in play behavior are also telling. A dog who suddenly loses interest in fetch or a cat who stops engaging with toys they once loved might be experiencing pain that makes these activities uncomfortable.
When to Seek Professional Help
While minor stiffness after a long play session might resolve with rest, certain signs require immediate veterinary attention. If your pet is completely unable to bear weight on a limb, shows signs of severe pain, such as vocalizing when moving, or has any visible deformity, don’t wait to seek care.
Even subtle changes that persist for more than a day or two warrant professional evaluation. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. What might start as a slight strain could develop into a more serious injury without proper care and attention.
Emergencies include obvious fractures, suspected spinal injuries, or any trauma that results in immediate and severe mobility changes. In these cases, minimize your pet’s movement and seek veterinary care immediately. In the event that medication is necessary to manage your pet’s pain, Librela and Solensia are noted as great options for managing orthopedic pain in dogs and cats.
Trust Broadway Veterinary Hospital For Your Pet’s Orthopedic Needs
You know your pet better than anyone. If something seems “off” about how they’re moving or behaving, trust that instinct. Even if the signs seem minor, it’s always better to have a professional evaluation than to wait and potentially allow a condition to worsen.
Don’t let your pet suffer in silence. If you notice any signs of orthopedic discomfort, please contact Broadway Veterinary Hospital at (916) 446-6154 or reach out to us through our contact form. Our experienced team specializes in treating bulldogs and is ready to provide the comprehensive care your pet deserves. We are ready to help them return to their happy, active lifestyle as quickly as possible.
