Lameness & Limping in Pets

What conditions can cause lameness and limping in pets?

Lameness and limping are most often caused by limb pain, which develops secondary to many medical conditions, including:

• Osteoarthritis
• Patellar luxation
• Trauma
• Osteosarcoma
• Cranial cruciate ligament disease
• Bone fractures
• Muscle, ligament, or tendon strain

How can lameness and limping affect my pet’s quality of life?

Lameness can limit your pet’s favorite activities, such as walking to the park, playing fetch, and going on family outings, that bring you both joy. Pets who can no longer participate in these activities may become socially isolated, frustrated, and anxious. Lameness can affect your pet’s ability to eliminate properly, as cats may no longer be able to step over the litter box edge, and dogs may have trouble getting outside. Pets often continue to have a great desire to be near their loved ones, and may become distressed if left alone, or unable to access family members. Adjusting to new limitations, such as an inability to navigate stairs or jump onto the bed, may be disheartening. Also, pain associated with lameness may cause your pet to suffer.

How can I manage my pet’s lameness and limping at home?

If your pet is lame and limping, these management tips may improve their condition:

• Apply cold or heat therapy, as appropriate, for your pet’s condition.
• Limit your pet’s activity to their comfort level, and supervise their interactions with rambunctious kids and pets.
• Provide supportive bedding that is easy to lie on and rise from, such as a Tempurpedic mattress pad with a waterproof mattress cover.
• Place rugs, carpet runners, or yoga mats on slippery surfaces so your pet can navigate more confidently.
• Use toenail covers, such as Dr. Buzby’s toe grips, to improve your pet’s traction on hard floors.
• Place steps beside your bed or couch so your pet can still enjoy their favorite resting spot.
• Arrange your furniture so pets can navigate common areas easily.
• Use a non-slip ramp to help your pet into your car, so they can accompany you on outings.
• Pull your pet in a wagon or stroller if they can no longer take daily walks.
• Provide low-sided litter boxes in easy-to-access areas for your cat. 

Speak with your family veterinarian about supplements and medications to manage your pet’s pain and underlying condition. Many types of rehabilitation therapy, such as laser therapy, acupuncture, therapeutic exercises, massage, and chiropractic therapy, may help your pet be more comfortable.

When should I seek veterinary help for my pet’s lameness and limping?

If your pet has a chronic condition, you should maintain close contact with your family veterinarian about their progress and management. Contact your family veterinarian in these situations:

• New lameness or limping
• Inability to rise or walk
• Vocalizing in pain
• Decreased appetite

Your family veterinarian may have additional management tips, or may prescribe anti-inflammatories or pain medications, to make your pet more comfortable. 

Before your pet’s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life, beginning end-of-life care discussions is vital. Learn more about pet hospice, in-home euthanasia, and our telehospice services, or contact a Lap of Love veterinarian in your area, so you can feel fully prepared for this difficult time.