Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap (patella) moves out of its normal position in the groove of the femur (thigh bone) and slips on the side, mainly inside the leg (medially). This condition is common in dogs and also seen in cats, especially in certain breeds.

Causes & Risk Factors

Most cases are developmental and appear during growth.
It is usually genetic, especially in small breeds like Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, and most toy, mini, and small breeds.
It can also occur due to trauma or limb deformities.

Types

Medial Patellar Luxation (MPL) – the most common form, the kneecap slips towards the inside of the limb.
Lateral Patellar Luxation (LPL) – less common and usually traumatic.

Grading

Grade 1: Patella slips out occasionally but returns on its own.
Grade 2: Patella dislocates more frequently and may cause lameness.
Grade 3: Patella is out of place most of the time, but can be manually repositioned.
Grade 4: Patella is permanently out and cannot be repositioned manually.

What You Might Notice:

Skipping or limping on a hind leg, the leg “locks” and cannot extend for a shorter or longer period
Bunny-hopping gait
Reluctance to jump or exercise
Visible kneecap misalignment in more severe cases

How Do We Diagnose It?

Physical examination by a vet, typically during the routine clinical examination.
X-rays or CT scans are used in complex cases to evaluate bone structure.

Treatment Options

Medical Management (mild cases):

Weight management is by far the most critical aspect.
Joint supplements (e.g., glucosamine, chondroitin). These should be started since diagnosis, rather than waiting until there are clinical symptoms of the condition.
Pain relief (NSAIDs) when clinical symptoms appear
Physiotherapy and strengthening exercises do wonders. Hydrotherapy, as a form of physiotherapy, is very crucial in developing the relevant muscles.

Surgical Correction (severe cases):

Deepening the femoral groove
Realigning the patellar tendon (tibial tuberosity transposition)
Soft tissue adjustments

However, we have noticed that with proper medical and conservative management, most cases will not need surgery.

Prognosis

Good to excellent in most cases, especially with appropriate management. Some pets may develop arthritis over time, even after treatment. With the preventive/conservative early management, this is precisely what we try to achieve. We aim to stop the development of arthritis /degenerative joint disease.

If you notice any limping, skipping, or change in your pet’s mobility, don’t ignore it — early diagnosis and intervention can make a big difference.

Visit Panacea Vets and discuss the rehabilitation program for your pet’s knees.