If your dog or cat suddenly starts favoring a leg—or has been limping for weeks—it’s natural to worry. Limping may seem minor at first, but it’s often a sign of pain or injury that needs professional attention.

At Guam Pet Hospital, we know how upsetting it can be to see your pet struggling to move comfortably. Whether the cause is a thorn in the paw or a chronic joint condition, we’re here to diagnose the issue quickly and help your pet feel better, faster.

Common Causes of Limping in Pets

Limping occurs when a pet feels pain, weakness, or instability in a leg. Sometimes it comes on suddenly—other times it develops over weeks or months. Understanding the cause helps us determine the best treatment approach.

Sudden Causes of Limping

Acute or sudden-onset limping is often caused by:

For a deeper dive, check out Why Is My Dog Limping?

Chronic or Gradual Limping

Limping that appears slowly or comes and goes might indicate an underlying condition:

For additional information, see the Mobility Matters Guide – AAHA.

When Is Limping an Emergency?

Some limps can wait 24–48 hours for evaluation—but others require immediate attention. Call us right away if your pet:

  • Refuses to put any weight on a leg
  • Cries out, yelps, or reacts aggressively when touched
  • Has visible swelling or a leg that looks “off”
  • Has an open wound or is bleeding heavily
  • Suddenly collapses or can’t get up

If you’re unsure, it’s always better to call Guam Pet Hospital and get guidance.

How We Diagnose Limping in Pets

Step 1: Physical Exam

We start with a hands-on orthopedic and neurologic exam:

  • Feeling for swelling or heat
  • Checking for pain or range of motion
  • Inspecting paws, joints, and nails for external causes

Step 2: Imaging & Lab Work

If needed, we use diagnostic tools like:

  • X-rays – to spot bone fractures, hip dysplasia, or arthritis
  • Bloodwork – to detect infections or systemic issues

Treatment & Management Options

For Minor Injuries

  • Rest and restrict activity for a few days
  • Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling
  • Check paws for thorns, foxtails, or cuts

For Chronic or Severe Issues

  • Pain relief – NSAIDs or other safe medications
  • Joint supplements – Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s
  • Physical therapy – including hydrotherapy or mobility exercises
  • Anti-inflammatory injections or laser therapy
  • Weight management – excess weight worsens joint strain

Surgery (When Needed)

  • TPLO or cruciate ligament repair
  • Hip replacement or surgical correction of dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation repair

Every treatment plan at Guam Pet Hospital is tailored to your pet’s unique needs and comfort.

Prevention Tips: Keeping Your Pet on the Move

  • Keep nails trimmed to prevent altered gait
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Use traction mats or rugs on slippery floors
  • Stick to regular, low-impact exercise like walking or swimming
  • Watch for subtle signs—like stiffness after naps or limping after play
  • Talk to your vet about joint supplements if your pet is a high-risk breed or aging

We’re Here to Help—Every Step of the Way

At Guam Pet Hospital, our compassionate team provides advanced orthopedic care backed by modern diagnostics. Whether your pet’s limp is temporary or a sign of something more serious, we’ll walk you through every step—from diagnosis to recovery.

If your pet is limping, don’t wait. Schedule an exam today, and let’s get your furry friend back to doing what they love—pain-free and full of life.