Hip Problems in Cats
Just as in humans, cats can develop problems in their hips, resulting in pain and decreased mobility. Although hip problems are usually more common in dogs than cats, felines are not immune to developing them. Because cats rarely show clinical symptoms for hip lameness, the disorder hasn't received much attention until recently. However, as owners become more aware of signs suggesting a hip problem, they can begin improving the quality of life of their pets.
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Feline Hip Dysplasia
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Feline hip dysplasia (FHD) is a deformity of a cat's hip (coxofemoral) joints that occurs when a hip joint and femur ball aren't able to properly fit into the hip joint socket. It's caused by a gradual breakdown of a cat's joints, causing abnormal bones. This leads to feline arthritis, resulting in intense pain when using joints used in walking and running. Over time it continues to worsen.
Symptoms of FHD
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Common symptoms include the cat crying when touched or not wanting to be picked up and carried. Other signs a cat may have FHD include decreased physical activity. A cat not willing to jump may be another symptom. An early rapid growth and weight gain with hips that are noticeably narrower at the shoulders rather than having a narrow, lean body could make a cat more prone for FHD.
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Causes and Diagnosis of FHD
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FHD is believed to be genetic. If your cat develops a hip problem, both parents had FHD and were carriers for the disorder. Although hip problems aren't noticeable in kittens, they can be born with the genetic tendency, developing it later. If a cat has the genes for the disorder, it can have trouble walking, appearing disinterested in exercising or playing. The best way to diagnose FHD is by having your vet X-ray the hip joint.
SusceptibleBreeds
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Although all cat breeds can develop hip dysplasia, breeds with larger bones are more susceptible for for the disorder. That's because the bones of larger cats aren't as cushioned as they would be by muscles and sinuous tissues, leading to a greater chance of dislocating the hip joint. Therefore, breeds such as Siamese that are generally smaller and lighter, having smaller bone structures, are less prone to developing hip dyslexia. Other breeds with larger body types include Persians and Himalayans, such as the Marine Coon, which may contribute to developing degenerative joint diseases. Also, breeds with more afflictions may also result in narrowing the base gene pool. Because the disorder is genetic, it can be averted through proper breeding patterns.
Treatment
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There's not a cure for FHD, but you can reduce your cat's discomfort. Glucosamine chondrotin supplements used by humans suffering from arthritis can also be given to cats, under the supervision of your vet. Other ways to help your pet may include helping placing an overweight cat on a diet. When exercising a cat, do it gently. Let your cat set its own exercising pace, being careful not to overdo it.
Misconceptions and Warnings
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Although it's been hinted that cats with FHD don't suffer pain, this isn't true. Because cats appear as stoic animals, they can easily hide pain well. Sometimes a cat may seem lazy but actually be suffering from pain caused by FHD.
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