When is Limping an Emergency? How to tell if your pet needs immediate care!

Soft Tissue Injuries: Minor sprains, muscle strains or ligament tears.

Joint Disease: Arthritis, Hip Displasia, or elbow Displasia.

Fractures or Dislocations: Often caused by accidents or falls. 

Foreign Objects: Thorns, glass, or debris lodged in the paw. 

Infections: Absecces, wounds, or severe nail bed infections. 

Neurological issues: Nerve damage of spinal problems.

While some of these issues are mild, others require immediate veterinary care!

Seek urgent care if you notice any of these warning signs alongside limping:

• Inability to bear weight at all on the affected limb
• Sudden onset limping after trauma (e.g., fall, car accident)
• Severe swelling, bleeding, or obvious deformity of the limb
• Crying, yelping, or aggression when the area is touched
• Open wounds, deep cuts, or exposed bone
• Fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite along with limping
• Paralysis or dragging of hind legs (could signal spinal emergency)

If your pet is in severe pain or cannot walk, treat it as an emergency and contact your vet immediately.

When It May Not Be Urgent (But Still Needs Attention)

Milder limping without severe pain can sometimes wait for a scheduled appointment, especially if:

• The pet is still using the limb, just less than usual.
• There’s only mild stiffness after exercise or sleep.
• There are no wounds, swelling, or sudden changes in behaviour.

Even if it doesn’t seem urgent, it’s best not to ignore limping. Chronic conditions like arthritis or ligament injuries can worsen if untreated.

At your pet’s appointment, your veterinary surgeon may use:

• A physical exam to check joints, muscles, and paws.
• X-rays or imaging to look for fractures, joint disease, or spinal issues.
• Lab tests if infection or systemic illness is suspected.

Early diagnosis leads to better treatment and faster recovery.