My Pet Folio

Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal position in the groove of the femur. This condition is common in small breeds but can affect dogs of any size. The severity ranges from occasional slipping with no pain to frequent dislocations causing lameness and eventually arthritis.

Symptoms:

Intermittent skipping or "bunny hopping" gait
Sudden lifting of the affected hind leg for several steps
Kicking the leg to the side to "pop" the kneecap back in place
Reluctance to jump or climb
Pain when the knee is manipulated
In severe cases, consistent lameness or abnormal leg carriage

Action Steps:

For occasional mild episodes, monitor your pet's mobility.
For frequent or painful episodes, consult your veterinarian.
Maintain appropriate weight to reduce stress on joints.
Avoid activities that seem to trigger episodes.
Discuss surgical options for frequent or severe cases.

Important Warning

While mild cases may be managed conservatively, moderate to severe patellar luxation often requires surgical correction to prevent progressive joint damage and arthritis. Never attempt to manipulate or "pop" the kneecap back in place yourself.