Feline Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint which leads to gradual deterioration, is relatively rare in cats. Hip dysplasia occurs when the ball of the joint does not properly fit into its socket, resulting in instability, pain and dysfunction. This condition develops due to a combination of a genetic defect involving multiple genes and environmental factors. Hip dysplasia is more prevalent in purebreds and more common in female cats. It does not normally present in kittens since their bones are not yet fully developed. Some heavy-boned breeds of cats, such as the Maine coon and the Persian, are more susceptible to the disorder, although small breeds may occasionally develop it.
Causes of Feline Dysplasia
In addition to hereditary factors, feline hip dysplasia may develop and progress due rapid weight gain, obesity or poor nutrition. Once the stress on the hip joint causes cartilage to wear away, the joint becomes increasingly unstable and the condition is exacerbated.
Symptoms of Feline Dysplasia
Some cats with feline hip dysplasia are asymptomatic. At the onset, symptoms of feline hip dysplasia may be subtle, but left untreated they will gradually worsen. These symptoms may include:
- Palpable joint instability
- Lack of energy
- Difficulty getting up
- Reluctance to climb stairs
- Swaying gait
- Limping
- Decreased range of motion in hip
- Hesitation, and then inability, to run or jump
- Pain at the hip joint
- Licking the affected area
Cats suffering from hip dysplasia may lose muscle mass in their thighs because of their increasing inability to use them and may, as a consequence, develop larger shoulder muscles.
Diagnosis of Feline Hip Dysplasia
In order to diagnose hip dysplasia, the veterinarian must perform a full physical examination and order a complete blood count, an electrolyte panel and a urinalysis. A history of symptoms will help the doctor to make an accurate diagnosis, as will learning whatever genetic history is available. X-rays will be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of Feline Hip Dysplasia
There are several treatments available for cats suffering from hip dysplasia. These include:
- Weight reduction
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Analgesics
- Dietary supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin
- Restriction of exercise
In severe cases that do not respond to conservative methods of treatment, surgery may be performed on cats with hip dysplasia, although such surgery is less frequently performed on cats than on dogs. There a few surgical procedures available, including a full hip replacement (arthroplasty). Typically, such surgery restores full hip function.