Lameness in dogs, cats and other small
animals
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It can be really hard to tell whether or not a pet is lame, and the
basic rule is- if in doubt- ask the vet! Obviously severe acute
(sudden) lamenesses are usually manifested by obvious hobbling, head
nodding, or wobbliness, but more subtle lamenesses, or those that come
on gradually, may be harder to detect and may only be manifested as
difficulty working at the usual level (working dogs), lethargy and loss
of desire to exercise. In severe cases, pets may take to their beds, go
off food, and become more grumpy. They may also cry out, and lick
obsessively at painful areas or nearby places.
Once you’ve identified the lame limb or area, it can be helpful to have
a feel of all the limbs, looking out for any areas of heat, pain,
swelling or lack of flexibility. This may help you to identify the
source of the pain and may give you information that will be helpful to
the vet. Lame pets should be rested to prevent further injury,
pending a veterinary diagnosis.
How to perform a lameness examination:
The best way to assess a dog that you think may be lame is to ask a
friend to walk and trot it up in a straight line on a hard, firm
surface. With cats and other pets you can try to get them moving around
on a smooth surface in order to better assess their lameness.
Lameness can be graded on a scale of 1-10 to aid objectivity:
Grade 0: Sound- no lameness or obvious pain.
Grade 2/10: Lameness hard to detect most of the time- occasionally
favours affected limb.
Grade 4/10: Lameness can be seen at faster paces.
Grade 6/10: Easily detectable lameness at walk.
Grade 8/10: Hobbling at walk.
Grade 10/10: Non weight-bearing