Why Is My Pet Limping? Uncovering the Cause with Modern Veterinary Care
It’s upsetting to see your pet limping—especially when you’re unsure why it’s happening or how serious it might be. Limping can come on suddenly or develop gradually over time, and while it may be caused by something minor like a sore paw, it can also be a sign of something more serious.
At Village Animal Hospital in Wichita, Kansas, we know how concerning it is when your pet isn’t moving comfortably. That’s why we use advanced diagnostics to find out exactly what’s going on—so your pet can get the right treatment and get back on their feet.
Let’s walk through some of the most common causes of limping in dogs and cats—and how we determine what’s behind the limp.
Step One: What Could Be Causing Your Pet’s Limp?
Limping can result from everything from play-related injuries to chronic conditions. Here are the most common culprits:
1. Injuries and Accidents
Active pets are bound to get bumps, bruises, and the occasional strain. Here are a few injury-related causes of limping:
- Sprains and Strains – Often due to jumping, twisting, or overexertion. Learn more about sprained legs in dogs.
- Fractures or Broken Bones – Caused by falls, car accidents, or rough play. Broken Bones in Dogs gives a helpful overview.
- Torn Nails – Painful and often prone to infection. See how to care for broken nails.
- Bite Wounds – Can cause hidden tissue damage and swelling. More on bite wounds in dogs.
2. Orthopedic Conditions
If your pet’s limp is persistent or comes and goes, it may be related to an underlying joint or bone issue:
- Cruciate Ligament Injury (CCL) – One of the most common causes of limping in dogs, especially large breeds. Learn about CCL injuries.
- Patellar Luxation – Common in small dogs, this condition occurs when the kneecap slips out of place. More on patellar luxation.
- Hip Dysplasia – A genetic condition that leads to arthritis and decreased mobility. Explore surgical options for hip dysplasia.
3. Arthritis and Age-Related Joint Disease
Senior pets often develop arthritis or degenerative joint disease, which can cause stiffness, slow movement, and favoring one leg. Learn more about arthritis in cats or check out AAHA’s Mobility Matters Guide.
4. Environmental Hazards
Sometimes, limping has nothing to do with bones or joints. The environment can be just as much to blame:
- Foxtails and Grass Awns – These can get embedded in paws or between toes, causing pain and infection. More on foxtail dangers
- Burns– from hot pavement
- Broken glass, thorns, burrs, or other foreign objects
- Inflammation due to allergies can cause significant paw pain
How We Find the Cause: Diagnostics for Limping Pets
We begin every limp evaluation with a hands-on physical exam, checking for swelling, heat, joint instability, or pain responses. From there, we may recommend additional diagnostics based on what we find.
Imaging Tools
- X-rays – Useful for detecting fractures, joint changes, and bone abnormalities
- Ultrasound – Helps us evaluate soft tissue injuries or fluid buildup in joints
- CT Scans or MRI – Recommended in complex cases to assess ligament tears, disc injuries, or deep joint structures
- Here’s why your pet may need a CT scan instead of just an X-ray
- Or see this guide to small animal MRI
- Here’s why your pet may need a CT scan instead of just an X-ray
Laboratory Testing
- Bloodwork can help detect infections, inflammation, or immune-mediated diseases
- Joint fluid analysis may be used when joint swelling or fever is present
When to Bring Your Limping Pet to the Vet
Some limps may improve within a day or two, especially if caused by mild soreness. But there are signs that mean it’s time to schedule an exam right away:
- Limping that lasts more than 24–48 hours
- Refusing to bear weight on the affected leg
- Visible swelling, bleeding, or bruising
- Sudden signs of pain, such as whining, hiding, or yelping when touched
- Limping that comes and goes or worsens over time
Compassionate, Comprehensive Care at Village Animal Hospital
At Village Animal Hospital, we know how important it is to see your pet moving freely and comfortably. Whether your dog just took a bad leap off the couch or your senior cat is slowing down, we’re here to help you get answers—and solutions.
Our experienced team will guide you through the diagnostic process with empathy, transparency, and options that make sense for your pet’s lifestyle, age, and activity level.
Let’s Get Your Pet Moving Again
If your pet is limping or showing signs of pain, don’t wait. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes—and often, faster relief.
Schedule an appointment with Village Animal Hospital in Wichita, Kansas, and let our team help your pet get back to what they do best: playing, exploring, and enjoying life without pain.
Contact us today to get started.
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