Lameness and limping can prevent your pet from being active and affect its daily life. At Westside Animal Hospital in Cincinnati, OH, we offer treatment to relieve any discomfort your pet may be experiencing and improve his or her overall health. Before scheduling your appointment, learn more about lameness and limping below:
What Is Lameness and Limping?
Lameness is categorized as the inability to use one or more legs or limbs. This is often due to an injury or condition that causes pain or stiffness.
Causes of Lameness and Limping in Pets
Lameness and limping in pets can occur due to a variety of causes. Some of these causes include:
• Osteoarthritis
• Injury from a car accident or fall
• Hip dysplasia
• Torn ligaments
• Tumors
• Neurological disorders
• Sprains
• Excess weight
• Infection
• Genetics
Symptoms of Lameness and Limping
If your pet is experiencing lameness and limping, he or she may also have other symptoms. Some symptoms that may need treatment immediately include:
• Pain
• Swelling
• Abnormal gait
• Falling
• Loss of muscle mass
• Shaking
• Not wanting to exercise
• Dragging its paws
• Popping, grating, or other unusual noises
• Loss of appetite
• Behavior changes
What to Expect During Your Appointment
When you visit us, our veterinarians will perform a physical examination. We will check if your cat or dog has any abnormalities, such as a broken bone, inflammation, or a foreign object in the affected region. Our vets may also have your pet stand and walk around if possible to determine the severity of the lameness. After, we’ll perform x-rays, scans, and blood work. Depending on the results, some treatments we may recommend include surgery, physical therapy, medication, or acupuncture.
How You Can Help Your Pet at Home
There are some steps you can take to prevent lameness and limping in your pet. Some of these steps include the following:
• Special orthopedic bedding
• Dietary changes
• Nutritional supplements
• Massage
• Avoiding stairs
• Monitoring his or her exercise
Contact us for an Appointment Today!
If your pet is exhibiting signs of lameness and limping, our team at Westside Animal Hospital in Cincinnati, OH, is happy to help. To learn more about our treatments or to schedule your appointment, call us at (513) 574-5000 today. When you need a veterinarian near me, we are happy to assist you!
