 |
The knee joint of the cat is one of the weakest in the body.
Just as football players frequently suffer knee injuries, the cat also has knee injuries.
The knee joint is relatively unstable because there is no interlocking of bones in the
joint. Instead, the two main bones, the femur and tibia, are joined with several
ligaments. When severe twisting of the joint occurs, the most common injury is a rupture
of the anterior cruciate ligament. When it is torn, an instability occurs that allows the
bones to move in an abnormal fashion in relation to each other. It is difficult for the
cat to bear weight on the leg without it collapsing.
How is the diagnosis made?
The most reliable means of diagnosing this injury is to move the femur and tibia in a
certain way to demonstrate the instability. This movement is called a "drawer
sign." It can usually be demonstrated with the cat awake. If the cat is in pain, has
very strong leg muscles, or is uncooperative, it may be necessary to use sedation in order
to examine the joint thoroughly.
How is it treated?
Correction of this problem requires surgery. A skilled surgeon can fashion a replacement
ligament and stabilize the joint so it functions normally or near normally. If surgery is
not performed within a few days to a week, arthritic changes will begin that cannot be
reversed, even with surgery.
What about torn cartilege?
Occasionally the injury that causes a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament will also result
in tearing of one or both of the menisci or "cartilages." At the time of
surgery, these are examined and removed if necessary.
Is there any non-surgical treatment?
Occasionally, the cat that has a ruptured cruciate ligament will become sound (will no
longer limp) even if surgery is not performed. However, arthritis will usually begin and
result in lameness a few months later. That cause of lameness cannot be corrected.
Does obesity play a role in this condition?
A special note is appropriate concerning the cat's weight. Obesity or excessive weight can
be a strong contributing factor in cruciate rupture. The ligament may become weakened due
to carrying too much weight; this causes it to tear easily. Obesity will make the recovery
time much longer, and it will make the other knee very susceptible to cruciate rupture. If
your cat has a weight problem, there are prescription diets that can be used to assist
weight reduction.
... |
|
| Article courtesy the Nelson
Animal Hospital, Nelson BC Canada. |
|
Important Disclaimer: The stories and information on
this site are not meant to diagnose or prescribe for you. If you or your pet has a medical
problem, you should consult your medical doctor or veterinarian. The ideas and information
on this site have not been endorsed or approved by the FDA. In no event shall the owners
of this website be liable for any damages whatsoever resulting from any action arising in
connection with use of this information or its publication, including any action for
infringement of copyright or defamation. The decision to use, or not to use, any
information is the sole responsibility of the reader. Opinions expressed here are those of
individual contributors. This web site does not verify or endorse the claims of
contributing writers.
|
