Dislocated joints — also known as luxations — in cats occur when the ligaments and tendons that hold the joints together become damaged and move out of proper alignment. This causes the joint to become dislocated.
If you see the signs of a dislocated joint in your cat, then you must get to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for joint dislocation in cats.
Symptoms Of Dislocated Joints (Luxations) In Cats
Joint dislocation is a serious issue for cats. In some cases, injuries might also cause cats to retreat into hiding for extended periods of time.
The following symptoms may present themselves cats with joint dislocations:
- Obvious pain
- Not being able to use a certain limb
- Visibly swollen area around the injury
- Limping
- Unusual bend in the limb
- Deformation around the joint
- Loss of sensation in the toes
Causes Of Dislocated Joints (Luxations) In Cats
Dislocated joints in cats are usually caused by injury. The impact from injury often causes the luxation.
Some of the more common causes of joint dislocation in cats include:
- Getting hit by a car
- Falling from a high distance
- Being injured by a human
- A fight with another cat or other animal
Beyond injuries, certain cats might also suffer from a congenital condition that can result in a joint dislocation. Hip dysplasia is a common example of this.
Treatments For Dislocated Joints (Luxations) In Cats
If your vet suspects your cat is suffering from a dislocated joint, they’ll carry out a full physical exam and most likely also order X-rays of the affected area.
Once an X-ray confirms a joint dislocation, your vet might recommend either joint manipulation — where they attempt to move the limb back into its proper place — or full-on surgery.
After either procedure, vets will usually prescribe painkillers to provide relief to cats as they recover.
Has your cat ever suffered from a dislocated joint? What sort of treatment did your vet give your pet? Let us know in the comments section below!
