Limping & Lameness in Pets Treated in Traverse City, MI
A limp is your pet’s way of telling you something hurts. At Omnivet in Traverse City, MI, we find the source of the problem, whether it is a cut paw pad, a sprain, a torn ligament, or a fracture, and create a plan to get your pet moving comfortably again.
Common Causes of Limping
- Paw injuries such as cut pads, splinters, burrs, or broken nails
- Sprains and strains from running, jumping, or rough play
- Torn cranial cruciate ligaments, one of the most common causes of back-leg lameness in dogs
- Fractures and dislocations from falls or car accidents
- Bite wounds and abscesses, especially in cats
- Arthritis and hip or elbow dysplasia
- Kneecap luxation in small breeds
- Tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease
- Bone tumors in older, larger dogs
When a Limp Needs Urgent Attention
Some limps improve with a day of rest, but have your pet seen promptly if they won’t put any weight on the leg, the limb looks misshapen or swollen, there is a wound or bleeding, the limp lasts more than 24 to 48 hours, or your pet cries out when touched. If your pet was hit by a car or fell from a height, treat it as an emergency even if the limp seems mild, as internal injuries may be present. See our trauma stabilization page for more.
How We Diagnose Limping
Your veterinarian will watch your pet walk, then perform a careful orthopedic exam, checking each paw, joint, and bone for pain, swelling, heat, or instability. Digital X-rays allow us to look for fractures, joint disease, and ligament injury. If infection or tick-borne disease is suspected, bloodwork may be recommended.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause and may include pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication made for pets, rest and activity restriction, bandaging or splinting, wound care and antibiotics, or surgery. Dogs with a torn cruciate ligament can benefit from our dedicated TPLO surgery program, which offers same-week consultations and continuous care with one surgeon.
Never Give Human Pain Relievers
Medications like ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen can be toxic to pets. If your pet is limping, keep them quiet and call Omnivet at (231) 244-4860. We offer urgent care, same-day, and walk-in appointments Monday through Friday from 9am to 7pm and Saturday from 10am to 6pm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Limping in Pets
When should I take my limping pet to the vet?
Seek care if your pet won’t bear weight, the leg is swollen or misshapen, there is a wound, the limp lasts more than 24 to 48 hours, or your pet seems to be in pain.
Can I give my dog ibuprofen or aspirin for limping?
No. Human pain relievers can cause stomach ulcers, kidney damage, and liver failure in pets. Call (231) 244-4860 for safe options.
How do I know if my dog tore their ACL?
Sudden back-leg limping, toe-touching, and sitting with the leg to the side are common signs. An exam and X-rays can confirm it. Learn more about our TPLO program.
Will my pet need X-rays?
X-rays are often recommended to check for fractures, joint disease, and ligament injuries that can’t be seen from the outside.
Can a limp go away on its own?
Minor sprains may improve with rest, but limps that persist or worsen need an exam to prevent long-term damage.
Why is my senior dog limping?
Arthritis is a common cause in older dogs, but injuries and bone tumors are also possible. An exam helps find the right treatment.
Can my cat’s limp be caused by a bite?
Yes. Cat bite wounds often form abscesses that cause swelling, pain, and limping. These usually need cleaning and antibiotics.