The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, connects the back of your pet's femur to the front of its tibia. The ACL, also known as the cranial cruciate ligament in pets, not only holds the tibia in place below the femur, but it also stabilizes the knee joint. ACL injuries occur when pets tear or rupture these ligaments for one reason or another.
How Acl Injuries Affects Your Pet
The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, connects the back of your pet's femur to the front of its tibia. This condition, also known as the cranial cruciate ligament in pets, not only holds the tibia in place below the femur, but it also stabilizes the knee joint. ACL injuries occur when pets tear or rupture these ligaments for one reason or another.
Common Symptoms of Acl Injuries
Since the symptoms of ACL injuries are similar to many other orthopedic pet health conditions, your veterinarian will need to examine your pet carefully for a proper diagnosis. Additionally, x-rays will be necessary as well. While your pet may not show all of the following symptoms, these are the most common warning signs to look for. *Occasional or Constant Lameness *Favoring One Leg Over Another Difficulty Walking and Running *Difficulty Jumping and Navigating Stairs *Swelling on the Inside of the Knee *Pain When Walking and/or Placing Weight on the Legs *Difficulty Rising After Sitting or Laying Down
Treatments for Acl Injuries
The treatment that your veterinarian may choose for your pet depends on how badly the ligaments have been damaged. In mild cases, your vet may simply recommend anti-inflammatory medications, rest, special diets and/or light exercise. However, in more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. After surgery, it can take up to three weeks before your pet will be able to bear any weight on the affected leg. Additionally, you will need to restrict your pet from any exercise for up to eight weeks to allow for proper healing. Finally, ice packs may help relieve your dog or cat's pain following surgery.
Breeds Affected
ACL injuries can occur in both dogs and cats of any age and gender. However, there are some animals that are more prone to these injuries than other pets are. These animals are listed here: Labrador and Golden Retrievers, Poodles, Rottweilers, Bichon Frises, German Shepherds, Greyhounds, Terrier Breeds, Obese Animals, and Extremely Active Animals.
Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.