What is a Cruciate Ligament Injury in Dogs and Cats?
The cruciate ligament is a vital structure in the knee joint and as we’ve mentioned at the top, it’s the ligament responsible for stabilising your pets’ joints as they move. In pets, injuries to this ligament can occur due to trauma or degenerative changes over time.
These injuries are most commonly seen as:
- Partial Tears: Damage that affects only part of the ligament, leading to instability and pain.
- Complete Tears: Severe injuries where the ligament is fully ruptured, and in these cases, it often requires surgical intervention.
- Chronic Issues: Long-term wear and tear that gradually deteriorates joint health.
Common Causes of Cruciate Ligament Injuries
There are multiple factors that can contribute to cruciate ligament injuries in dogs and cats. It can include:
- Sudden Movements: Pets are naturally playful and energetic, but sudden, forceful movements can strain or tear the cruciate ligament. Activities like abrupt twisting while chasing a toy, leaping off furniture, or making sharp turns during play can overextend the knee joint.
- Obesity: Excess body weight increases stress on your pet’s joints and it leads to greater wear and tear on the ligaments. It also slows down healing in case of injuries and it complicates recovery.
- Genetics: Certain dog breeds, such as Labradors, Rottweilers, Boxers, and Golden Retrievers, have a genetic predisposition to cruciate ligament injuries. Cats can also inherit conditions that make their knee joints less stable, although this is less common than in dogs.
- Age-related Changes: As your pets age, their joints and ligaments naturally weaken and it makes them more prone to injuries.
- Overexertion: Pets that engage in intense physical activity without adequate conditioning are at greater risk of ligament injuries.
Signs of an Injured Cruciate Ligament in Cats and Dogs
Recognising cruciate ligament injuries early is vital for effective treatment and recovery. The symptoms will differ depending on the severity of the injury, but common signs include:
1. Limping or Lameness
You will notice your pets often favouring the injured leg. They ease up on it and it results in a noticeable limp. In the most severe cases, they may even completely avoid putting weight on the affected leg and hold it off the ground. You might also catch your dog hopping on three legs or a cat moving cautiously to avoid discomfort.
2. Difficulty Moving
Pets with cruciate ligament injuries struggle with everyday movements like standing up, sitting down, or climbing stairs. Activities that involve jumping — such as hopping onto furniture for cats or into a car for dogs — become challenging or avoided altogether.
3. Joint Swelling and Stiffness
The area around the knee (stifle joint) may appear visibly swollen due to inflammation.
Stiffness in the joint, especially after rest, is another telltale sign. It makes movement for dogs and cats appear awkward or painful.
4. Behavioral Changes
Pets may become lethargic or unwilling to participate in activities they previously enjoyed. Pain can make them irritable or withdrawn, and some pets may even react negatively to being touched near the affected area. Their appetites can also change because of the discomfort they’re experiencing.
What are the Next Steps to Take?
If you observe any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian immediately to prevent further damage. Early intervention is key to a better prognosis, so don’t hesitate to book a thorough check-up for your furry friend.
How are Cruciate Ligament Injuries Diagnosed?
There are two main ways to properly diagnose a pet with cruciate ligament injuries. To help your pets get the most effective treatment, our team follows a systematic approach:
- Physical Examinations: The veterinarian will assess your pet’s gait, posture, and joint flexibility. Specific tests, like the “drawer test” or “tibial thrust test,” help evaluate the stability of the knee joint by gently manipulating the leg.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays are commonly used to rule out fractures or other joint issues and to assess the condition of the knee. MRI or CT scans provide a more detailed view of soft tissues, and it helps confirm ligament tears or associated damage like meniscal injuries.
Treatment Options for Cruciate Ligament Injuries
Effective treatment for cruciate ligament injuries depends on the severity of the damage and your pet’s overall health.
At the injury’s early stages, your pets may benefit from non-surgical interventions, however more severe cases often require surgery to restore joint stability and function. Below are the most common treatment approaches:
Non-surgical Treatments
Mild injuries or early-stage ligament damage may be managed conservatively with the following methods:
- Rest and Restricted Activity: Confine your pet to a quiet, small space to limit movement and prevent further injury. Avoid stairs, jumping, or rough play for several weeks.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Medications like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can reduce pain and swelling. Always follow your vet’s prescription to avoid adverse effects.
- Physical Therapy: Gentle exercises, such as controlled walking or swimming, can strengthen surrounding muscles and improve joint stability over time. Hydrotherapy is also particularly effective for dogs as it provides low-impact resistance training.
Surgical Treatments
When the injury is severe or doesn’t improve with conservative measures, a cruciate ligament surgery is often recommended. So what are the surgical options for treating cruciate ligament injuries in dogs and cats? The common procedures you can expect are:
- TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy) which alters the knee joint mechanics to reduce strain on the ligament.
- Extracapsular repair utilises sutures to stabilise the knee. This is typically suitable for smaller pets.
- TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement) is a surgical technique designed to stabilise the joint.
After the cruciate ligament surgery, most pets require 8–12 weeks of recovery. During this time, activity should be limited and physical therapy should be considered.
Proper aftercare, regular vet check-ups, and pain management are a must to encourage successful healing.
But what about cruciate ligament surgery costs?
Cruciate ligament dog surgery costs typically range from $2,000 – $6,000, but it’s well worth noting that the price varies based on procedure type and the size of your pet.
On the other hand, cat cruciate ligament surgery costs are generally lower, but yet again, it depends on the complexity of the operation.
Your pets deserve only the best care throughout their treatment and recovery journey. Our clinic offers comprehensive pet surgery services tailored to your furry friend’s needs.
How Can I Prevent Cruciate Ligament Injuries in My Pet?
Prevention is always better than treatment. To reduce your pet’s risk of cruciate ligament injuries, there are a few tips that you can follow.
- Maintain your pet’s healthy weight. Excess weight places unnecessary stress on your pets’ joints and it increases the risk of ligament injuries. Regular vet visits can help track your pets’ weight and they can provide guidance on diet adjustments.
- Do moderate exercise. Engage your pet in low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or controlled play sessions. Avoid overexertion for senior pets or for those with a history of joint issues.
- Avoid high-risk activities. Discourage sudden jumps, quick turns, or rough play, particularly on slippery surfaces. For older pets, consider using ramps instead of stairs to minimise joint strain.
- Early intervention. Address minor injuries promptly before they escalate into more severe problems. Consult your vet about joint supplements that support ligament health, especially if your pets have a genetic predisposition.
If you require more preventive care advice, please explore our services at Bayside Vets.
Support Your Pet’s Recovery Journey
Cruciate ligament injuries in dogs and cats are serious but manageable with early detection and appropriate care. By recognising symptoms and seeking professional advice, you can ensure your pet’s swift recovery and long-term well-being.
At Bayside Vets, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether your pet needs diagnostic services, surgery, or preventative care, book an appointment today for expert veterinary care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cruciate Ligament Surgery or Injuries
Recognising a cruciate ligament injury involves observing changes in your pet’s behaviour and physical movements. You may notice your pet limping, hesitating to move, swelling or stiffness, showing behavioural changes, or hearing joint popping sounds.
The healing potential depends on the severity of the injury:
-> For partial injuries, these might improve with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. However, this approach requires strict activity restrictions to prevent further damage.
-> For complete ruptures, a cruciate ligament surgery is necessary. Without surgical treatment, your pet may experience chronic pain, joint instability, and arthritis. Early intervention is crucial for a better prognosis.
The recovery timeline varies based on the type of surgery and your pet’s individual response, but typically, it takes 8-12 weeks for pets to regain mobility. Ongoing physical therapy and follow-up visits are essential to monitor progress. If you’re in need of further guidance to discuss your pet’s needs, please contact Bayside Vets.