Cavalier Talk

Luxating Patellar: Is a dislocated kneecap that cannot stay in its groove. Normally the kneecap moves up and down in a groove along the femur, but if this groove is shallow, the kneecap may move laterally and slip out. Most of the time a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a luxating patella has a medial luxation which can be caused by a traumatic accident or it can be genetic in origin. Since this disorder can also occur from trauma the only repair for the disorder is surgical. Signs of luxating patella include: difficulting straightening the knee, pain in the stifle, and limping. If you notice your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel limping then have your vet check their patellar on the leg showing the limp to see if a possible injury has occurred from just everyday running and playing in the yard. Many times if it is just a minor injury it may heal naturally without any need for surgery.

For more information on Cavalier King Charles Spaniels please visit our website at www.cruisincavaliers.com