Limping is one of the most obvious signs your pet may be in pain. It can stem from something as simple as a sore paw—or point to more serious orthopedic or neurological concerns. Regardless of the cause, limping should never be ignored.

At Oliver Animal Hospital, we’re here to help you understand what might be behind your pet’s limp, what signs to watch for, and how veterinary diagnostics can uncover the root cause so your pet gets the right treatment fast.

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Why Is My Pet Limping? Common Causes to Know

Limping can be sudden or gradual, affecting one or multiple limbs. Here are some of the most common reasons pets start to limp:

  • Acute injuries: Sprains, ligament tears, or fractures.
  • Chronic conditions: Arthritis, hip dysplasia, or degenerative joint issues.
  • Neurological problems: Spine or nerve-related disorders.
  • Surface injuries: Paw wounds, cracked nails, or embedded foxtails.

When to Call the Vet Immediately

Don’t wait to seek care if you notice:

  • Sudden inability to bear weight
  • Swelling, heat, or visible injury
  • Limping that persists beyond 24 hours
  • Signs of pain like vocalizing, shaking, or hiding

Why Is My Dog Limping? – AKC

What Might Be Causing the Limp? A Closer Look at Common Conditions

Soft Tissue Injuries (Sprains & Strains)

Caused by overuse, jumping, or slips—these are common in active pets. You might notice swelling, stiffness, or reluctance to use the limb.

  • Treatment: Rest, anti-inflammatories, and rehab therapy.

Arthritis and Joint Degeneration

Often affecting senior pets or large breeds, arthritis causes gradual stiffness and limping, especially after rest.

  • Treatment: Weight management, joint supplements, NSAIDs.

Arthritis in Cats – iCatCare

Cruciate Ligament Tears (ACL/CCL)

A leading cause of hind limb lameness in dogs. Common in athletic or overweight dogs.

  • Signs: Sudden lameness, swelling, “toe-touching” stance.
  • Treatment: Surgery (TPLO or lateral suture), rehab.

Canine Cruciate Ligament Injury – CSU

Hip Dysplasia

Common in large breeds like Labs and Shepherds, this inherited condition causes instability in the hip joint.

  • Signs: Bunny-hopping gait, difficulty rising, reluctance to run.
  • Treatment: Weight control, supplements, surgical correction.

Hip Dysplasia Surgical Options – Today’s Veterinary Practice

Patellar Luxation (Dislocated Kneecap)

Common in small dogs, especially breeds like Yorkies and Pomeranians.

  • Signs: Skipping or hopping while walking.
  • Treatment: Varies from physical therapy to surgical correction.

Patellar Luxation in Dogs – Cornell Vet

Fractures and Bone Trauma

Fractures are usually the result of falls, accidents, or blunt force trauma.

  • Signs: Obvious deformity, severe swelling, non-weight bearing.
  • Treatment: Immediate stabilization, imaging, and surgical repair.

Paw Injuries: Foxtails, Cracked Nails, Cuts

Even a tiny object like a foxtail can cause infection or abscesses in the paw, leading to limping.

Foxtails and Their Dangers – UC Davis

How Vets Diagnose the Cause of Limping

A limp is a symptom—not a diagnosis. To identify the true cause, veterinarians use a variety of tools.

Physical Exam

  • Assess range of motion, swelling, and pain points.
  • Detect joint instability or neurologic deficits.

Imaging

  • X-rays: Evaluate fractures, arthritis, hip dysplasia.
  • Ultrasound: Detects soft tissue injuries and fluid buildup.
  • CT scan or MRI: Best for complex bone or neurological issues.

Lab Work

  • Bloodwork and joint fluid analysis can reveal inflammation, infection, or autoimmune disease.

When Should You See a Vet?

Call your veterinarian if your pet has:

  • Limped for over 24 hours
  • Sudden or severe lameness
  • Visible swelling or deformity
  • Signs of severe pain, distress, or vocalization

Don’t wait—delayed treatment can make some conditions harder to fix.

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Treatment Options for Limping Pets

The right treatment depends on the underlying cause. Options may include:

  • Pain management: NSAIDs, laser therapy, or acupuncture
  • Rest and rehab: Physical therapy, hydrotherapy, restricted activity
  • Surgery: Recommended for fractures, ligament tears, and severe dysplasia

Our goal is always to relieve pain, restore mobility, and help your pet feel like themselves again.

Limping might seem like a minor issue, but it often signals a bigger problem beneath the surface. With timely veterinary evaluation and diagnostic testing, most pets can return to full function and enjoy a pain-free life.

If your pet is showing signs of lameness or discomfort, reach out to our compassionate team at Oliver Animal Hospital.

Schedule your pet’s evaluation today