Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is an abnormal growth of the hip, resulting in malformation, degeneration and deterioration of the hip joint, which leads to arthritis and pain.The condition is much more common in large breed dogs such as German Shepherds, Saint Bernards, Labrador and Golden retrievers, but does affect cats too. Breed predisposition is also seen in cats such as Maine Coons, Persians, Siberians and Himalayans.

Hip dysplasia is a multifactorial genetic disease - this means while there is a hereditary component to the condition, the severity and development of it can be influenced by diet (calorie intake), environment, exercise levels, growth rate, muscle mass and hormones. A study of German Shepherds discovered that overweight puppies were almost twice as likely to develop hip dysplasia when compared to their lean counterparts. Studies have also shown neutering/spaying large breed dogs at an early age can also increase their likelihood of developing hip dysplasia.

The hip joint is a ball and socket joint. During growth, the ball (the head of the femur, or thighbone) and the socket in the pelvis (acetabulum) should grow at the same rate. In hip dysplasia, this uniform growth during early development does not occur. The result is laxity of the hip joint, followed by degenerative joint disease (DJD) or osteoarthritis (OA), to stabilize the loose hip joint.

Clinical signs of hip dysplasia can occur at any age. The age it presents itself at depends on the severity and presence of the influencing factors. For example, an overweight large breed dog with a genetic predisposition to hip dysplasia is more likely to develop clinical signs of the condition early on, whereas a lean large breed dog with a genetic predisposition, may only show clinical signs in older adult years. Degeneration and deterioration of the hip joint in an animal born with genetic predisposition to hip dysplasia cannot be prevented, therefore, eventually all animals with genetic predisposition to hip dysplasia will become symptomatic. The severity of the symptoms is heavily influenced by the contributing factors.

The animal may be wobbly and/or reluctant to rise from a lying position. Cats might have limited range of motion while jumping and react on being picked up from the ground. Limping on hind legs is another symptom of the condition. Limping is due to pain and is a symptom associated with pain.

Currently, there is no blood test or genetic test for detection of hip dysplasia. There is ongoing research into genetic testing and no currently available option on the market is valid. Routine screening of all breeding animals, prior to breeding, is recommended by means of hip x-rays.

Suspected individuals are evaluated using imaging modalities such as hip radiographs. The positioning for radiographs is uncomfortable, therefore a light sedation is recommended for the process.

There are no cures available for hip dysplasia. Most treatments are aimed at managing and alleviating the pain associated with the condition.

Medical management consists of prescription medication, joint supplements and protectants and joint specific diets. The choice of medication is made on an individual basis and requires a discussion with your vet for your pet.

Physical therapy is very effective at improving range of motion and easing the pain associated with the condition. The surgical options available depends on the age of the patient affected and can be discussed further by your veterinarian.

Alternative medicine, although not very well researched, such as hydrotherapy, laser and shock wave therapy can be beneficial in managing hip dysplasia. A discussion with your veterinarian is recommended as these treatments can be altered for the affected individual’s needs.