Dr. Joel Todd Leroy Prince has been caring for dogs and cats for more than 30 years. Practicing at Elmhurst Animal Care Center, Dr. Joel Todd Leroy Prince has a particular focus on orthopedic care.
The cruciate ligament is a key element of connective tissue in a cat's knee joint. The ligament is subject to rupture from trauma or degenerative disease, both of which can cause instability and swelling of the joint, resulting in a limping or dragging gait.
To test a cat with these symptoms for a cruciate ligament injury, a veterinarian may manipulate the upper and lower leg bones to assess stability. If the veterinarian can pull the lower bone out toward the front of the upper leg bone, a cruciate ligament injury is likely. This test may require sedation if the cat is uncooperative.
If a cruciate ligament injury is present, the cat may require surgery. If surgery is not an option, the owner can try to limit the cat's activity. Medication and stabilizing aids can help the cat heal, though uncorrected damage is likely to lead to arthritis in the affected joint.
The cruciate ligament is a key element of connective tissue in a cat's knee joint. The ligament is subject to rupture from trauma or degenerative disease, both of which can cause instability and swelling of the joint, resulting in a limping or dragging gait.
To test a cat with these symptoms for a cruciate ligament injury, a veterinarian may manipulate the upper and lower leg bones to assess stability. If the veterinarian can pull the lower bone out toward the front of the upper leg bone, a cruciate ligament injury is likely. This test may require sedation if the cat is uncooperative.
If a cruciate ligament injury is present, the cat may require surgery. If surgery is not an option, the owner can try to limit the cat's activity. Medication and stabilizing aids can help the cat heal, though uncorrected damage is likely to lead to arthritis in the affected joint.
