Lameness and Limping

It is important to find out what is causing your pet’s limp or lame leg rather than waiting for the injury to heal on its own. Pets act this way when they cannot put weight on their leg due to an injury or illness. At Glastonbury Animal Hospital in Marlborough and Glastonbury, CT, our veterinary team can evaluate your pet and pinpoint the cause of this behavior and treat it.

Causes of Lameness and Limping

Your pet might limp or have lameness in one or more legs due to a soft tissue injury or fracture. For example, pets who have been in an accident might have this kind of injury. Underlying conditions can also cause pets to have a lame leg or limp. Conditions that affect the joints, such as arthritis and hip dysplasia can cause deterioration or damage that leads to pain and stiffness. Pets with these conditions often have trouble putting weight on the affected leg.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

You should seek out vet care as soon as possible since there are many possible causes of limping and lameness. We can physically examine your pet and take X-rays to find out the cause of its behavior. If your pet is showing any other symptoms, such as whining or refusing to move around, it is important to seek care right away. We can get started on promptly treating your pet’s injury or illness with the right diagnosis. Prompt care helps injuries heal and provides relief from symptoms of chronic joint conditions.

Diagnosing the Cause of Limping and Lameness

Your pet will need a thorough exam to determine the exact cause of this behavior. We might also run imaging tests, take blood tests, or use other diagnostic tools to find the cause. We then make a treatment plan once we know why your pet is not able to put weight on its leg.

Treatment Options

The kind of treatment your pet needs to help improve their mobility and ease symptoms will depend on the cause. Injuries might need rest, splints, or possibly surgery if they are severe. Managing chronic joint conditions might involve medication, physical therapy, and other types of care. Our veterinary team will go over your pet’s treatment options after making a diagnosis.

Find Veterinary Care in Glastonbury and Marlborough, CT

If limping and lameness is getting in the way of your pet’s active life, be sure to contact Glastonbury Animal Hospital at (860) 633-8394 . Set up an appointment with our vet in our Glastonbury or Marlborough, CT, office and get your pet’s mobility and happiness back.