FRACTURES

WHAT IS A FRACTURE?

The bones of the front and rear legs of dogs and cats are very similar to that of people’s arms and legs. Just like in people, these bones can break or fracture due to trauma. Some examples of trauma that can lead to fractured bones include fighting with other animals, falling, slipping on a hard surface, and being hit by a car.  In addition to the bones of the limbs, the bones of the pelvis, feet, spine, jaw, and skull are also susceptible to fractures.

WHAT SIGNS WILL MY PET SHOW IF THERE IS A BROKEN BONE?

Fractures are quite painful, so not putting any weight on a limb or an obvious limp are the most common sign that a fracture has occurred.  Swelling, pain, or abnormal movement/alignment of the limb may also be present. Dogs and cats who have sustained severe trauma like being hit by a car or falling a long distance may have more than one fractured bone and may not be able to move or walk. Other internal injuries like bleeding or organ damage may also occur with severe trauma, so it is important to have your pet evaluated immediately if your suspect your pet has sustained trauma.

WILL AN X-RAY BE NECESSARY IF A FRACTURE IS SUSPECTED?

Yes, an x-ray is the best way to screen for and diagnose a fractured bone.  Depending on the level of discomfort, sedation or pain medications may be necessary to obtain the x-ray.  If significant trauma has occurred, additional test such as bloodwork and x-rays of the chest and abdomen will also be recommended to screen for other injuries. 

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO MOVE MY PET IF I THINK THEY HAVE A BROKEN BONE?

Because broken bones are very painful, dogs and cats may try to bite when moved so it is important to stay away from their head and mouth. When a bone breaks, the pieces move and the sharp edges can damage other tissues in the area. Confining your pet to a small space like a crate will help decrease movement of the bones before or on your way to the veterinary hospital.

WILL MY PET NEED A CAST?

Depending on the bone that is fractured, a temporary bandage, splint, or cast may be placed to keep the fracture site stable until it can be repaired.  Not only will this prevent ongoing damage to the bone and surrounding tissue but will also help reduce pain.  Whether a cast or splint will be used long term will depend on the location and severity of the fracture.  In most instances, a cast or splint will not keep a fractured bone stable enough for it to heal properly. Casts and splints are not always the simplest or least expensive option either.  They often need to be evaluated and changed frequently.  Complications such as pressure sores and skin damage can also occur if the bandage slips or becomes wet. Surgical stabilization is the ideal treatment method for fractures and will allow for optimal recovery and leg function.  Please see the FRACTURE REPAIR page for more information on the different techniques used to repair fractures.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE FOR THE BONE TO HEAL?

Recovery time can vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture, but most fractures will require 8 to 12 weeks to adequately heal. The team at VOMC will provide you will all the instructions and support you will need to care for your pet during their recovery period.