Why is my pet limping: Causes, treatment & when to see the vet

Limping or lameness means your pet is walking abnormally on one or more limbs. The limping may be obvious or subtle. They may be able to put weight on all their limbs, but the limp is observed when they start walking. Sometimes they will hold up the affected limb or drag it around. It may be also be continuous or intermittent.

Limping in pets can be due to illness or injury and whilst it is common, it is not normal so it’s important to take action. How fast depends on the severity of the situation.

When limping is an emergency

There are some situations when you need to seek immediate veterinary treatment and if this is out of normal business hours, you will need to speak to an emergency vet. Common signs that indicate your pets limping is an emergency include:

• Sudden inability to move or get up

• Extreme pain ie. trembling, vocalising, aggression, hiding

• Excessive bleeding and/or swelling

• Obvious fracture or dislocation

• Limb dragging or paralysis

• Extreme lethargy or disorientation

• Trouble breathing

• Vomiting

It is always safer to exercise caution concerning the health of your pets so if there are any other signs that you are worried about, get in touch with your vet. They can help you determine if it is an emergency situation or when to best book an appointment.

How to transport an injured pet

Transporting an injured pet can cause unnecessary pain or worsen injuries so proceed with caution. A pet that is in pain can also bite or show aggression out of self-protection when they have never shown such aggression before.

Carry small pets to the car whilst supporting their head and hips. Lay them in the car with their injured leg up. For larger pets use a blanket or sling and with the help of another person, slowly move them into the car. If you are worried about moving your pet, contact your vet for advice.  

What to do if your pet is limping

If you notice your pet is limping and have determined it is not an emergency, there are a number of steps you can take:

Examine the area – if your pet will allow you, gently look at the effected limb. They may sometimes bite or lick at the sore area. Look for cuts, bruises, swelling, tender spots, heat, instability or any other signs. Check between their toes and paw pads for foreign objects such as thorns, splinters, stones, glass. Check their nails and paw pads for bleeding or damage.  

Foreign object – if you find a small object such as a thorn, splinter, stone or piece of glass you can try to remove it with tweezers. However, if your pet is showing any aggression, you are having difficulty or are uncomfortable removing the item, get in touch with your vet for help. If you are able to remove the item, gently clean the area with soap and warm water afterwards.

Wounds – if you find a minor wound, you can clean it with soap and warm water. For major wounds get in touch with your vet immediately. If you cannot tell how severe or deep the wound is, contact your vet so they can conduct a thorough examination.

Swelling – for minor swelling you can gently apply an ice pack wrapped in a damp tea towel to the affected area if your pet will allow you. Remove it every few minutes to avoid frostbite. For major swelling, get in touch with your vet immediately. If you cannot tell how severe the swelling is, contact your vet so they can conduct a thorough examination.

Rest & confinement – if the limping is not severe and there are no external signs, keep your pet quiet and comfortable. Encourage them to rest, so no exercise, running or jumping. If they need to go to the toilet take them outside on a leash, then return them to their rest area. Provide a comfortable soft bed that is low to the ground making it easy to access. If the limping doesn’t improve within 24-48 hours make an appointment with your vet to have it looked at.