Expert: Norman Auspitz - 4/16/2009

Question
I have a 3 year old pure bred Maine Coon, named Leo.  He has been diagnosed with both knees slipping out of the joint (Luxating patella).  His right one is worse than the left, and he might have to have surgery soon.  I was just wondering if you have come across any Maine Coons with this problem and if so how did they do with the surgery?  I'm very scared to have the surgery done, but I have a feeling that, that is what he will need done.  He is on a diet right now, not that he is over weight, just for the mere fact that being lighter would help his knees.  Activity is also being restricted, and medicine for pain.  Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Karon

Answer
Karon,

Remember, I am not a vet.  Fortunately, from what I have heard, luxating patella is fixable by surgery. The surgery can be fairly simple or rather extensive depending on how bad the conditions is.

I do not know where you are located, but you really need to consult with an orthopedic veterinarian who understands cats as many vets are not equipped to understand the orthopedics of cats.  Cats have very different skeletal characteristics than dogs and many vets tend to treat cats like small dogs. This could lead to incorrect assessments and treatments for your Maine Coon.

Here is some further information from:

http://www.rhagorol.co.uk/luxating.htm:


Luxating Patella (Patellar Luxation)


Luxating patella is a condition in which the patella (kneecap) dislocates or moves out of its normal location. The luxation is usually medial (to the inside of the knee), but can be lateral (to the outside of the knee). It can be caused by some form of blunt trauma, or may also be a congenital defect. In congenital cases, it is usually bilateral (affects both hind legs), and can result in limping, ‘bunny hopping’ or hind-limb collapse. Diagnosis is made through palpation of the knee joints, and radiographs (X-rays) are necessary in some cases. It is often seen in association with concurrent hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis can develop secondarily to either or both conditions. There are several stages in patellar luxation, ranging from minor (the patella's position is normal most of the time) to very serious (the patella is permanently luxated and the animal may have difficulty walking). The more serious stages may require surgery to correct it. The surgery involves deepening the groove (trochlea) that the patella sits in. Additional help can be given with the use of pet ramps, stairs, or steps. While patella luxation can be seen in any breed of cat, it appears to be seen more commonly in Abyssinian, Devon Rex, Bengal and Maine Coon cats.


Most of what is on the Internet concerns dogs, which is why you really should seek an opinion for a cat specialist.

Best regards... Norm.