Early Warning Signs of Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a disease that may be caused by a variety of circumstances, including genetics and environmental. Hip dysplasia may be the result of weight gain, excessive exercise, rapid development, or an injury to the legs. Your pet’s hips are just like yours, they consist of a ball and socket joint. The head of the femur bone, which is on the upper hind thigh-bone of your pet, should fit snug into their hip socket. Unfortunately, the hip socket and/or the head of the femur bone may become deformed, which causes hip dysplasia. These deformities may cause severe pain, as well as lead to lameness in your pet. If you suspect hip dysplasia in your pet, it’s important to have your pet examined by our veterinarian in Brooklyn as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia in Pets
Unfortunately, the symptoms of hip dysplasia in your pet may be less noticeable when the disease first develops. However, the symptoms will become more intense as your pet ages. It’s also important to keep in mind that the symptoms may be consistent, or they may be intermittent, and they often worsen after playtime or exercise. If you notice any of the following symptoms, your pet should be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
- Limping
- Difficulty moving rear legs
- Refusing to play, run, jump, and climb stairs
- Walking with hind legs together
- Stiffness in back legs and hip
- Pain when touched in the hip or pelvic area
- Atrophy of hind leg muscles
- Difficulty rising
Veterinary Treatment
Unfortunately, there isn’t a cure for hip dysplasia. However, there are many veterinary treatment options that will provide your pet relief from the pain and allow better mobility. Veterinary treatment may include non-surgical and surgical options. In order to determine the best type of treatment for your pet, our vet will take into consideration your pet’s size, age, overall health, and the degree of damage to their hip. Therapeutic massage methods you can do at home may help soothe and stretch the muscles as well as lessen your pet’s pain.
If you suspect your pet may have hip dysplasia, contact the Clinton Hill Animal Clinic in Brooklyn to schedule an exam.