Broken Hip in Cats: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery

A hip fracture in cats is a serious injury that requires immediate veterinary attention. Understanding the signs, treatment options, and recovery process is crucial for cat owners to ensure the best outcome for their feline companions. 

Understanding Hip Fractures in Cats

What constitutes a broken hip?

A hip fracture in cats usually involves a fracture of the femur (thigh bone) near the hip joint or a dislocation of the ball joint where the leg connects to the pelvis. These injuries are serious and are usually the result of significant trauma, such as being hit by a car, falling from a high place (such as a second-story window), or falling.

Common Causes of Hip Fractures

• Trauma: By far the most frequent cause. Some examples are falling from balconies, abrupt landings during jumps or being hit by vehicles.

• Bone disease: Conditions such as osteoporosis or Bone cancer (osteosarcoma) can weaken bone structure, making breaks more likely even with minor incidents such as slipping on a tile floor.

• Birth defects: Some kittens are born with conditions such as hip dysplasia or malformed hip sockets, making them more vulnerable to dislocations or stress fractures as they get older.

Recognizing the Signs of a Broken Hip

Behavioral Indicators

Cats are masters at hiding pain, but certain changes are hard to miss if you know what to look for:

• Sudden limp or limp: One of the clearest signs. Your cat may suddenly stop using a paw, walk with a limp, or drag a limb uncomfortably. In severe cases, they will not hold up at all.

• Crying or howling: Sore cats may scream when they try to move, jump, or even when they are picked up. If your normally calm cat suddenly speaks well, something could be very wrong.

• Avoiding movement: Injured cats often isolate themselves. They may hide under beds, in closets, or in dark corners and resist being touched.

• Aggression or sensitivity: If your sweet cat suddenly hisses, growls, or bites when touched near her back or hind legs, that's a red flag.

Physical Signs

• Visible swelling: You may notice a swollen, tender area on one side of your hip or upper leg.

• Uneven hips or legs: If a leg appears shorter or twists at an odd angle, it could be dislocated or broken.

• Warmth or bruising: Gently feel the area. If it feels warm, or if you see dark spots under your skin, that could be bruising from internal bleeding.

Diagnosing a Hip Fracture

Veterinary Examination

At the veterinary clinic, your cat will first undergo a practical examination. The vet will check the range of motion, palpate the hips and thighs, and assess your cat's response to pain. In many cases, the veterinarian may suspect a break just by observing how the cat moves or holds its paw.

Imaging Techniques

• X-rays: These are the gold standard. A simple x-ray can clearly show if the femoral head (the "ball") has come out of the socket or if the bone is fractured.

• CT scans or MRIs: They are used in more complex cases, especially if the fracture involves joint damage or is not clearly visible on X-rays. This is more common in high-end clinics or when surgical planning is needed.

Treatment Options for a Broken Hip

Nonsurgical approaches (for stable or minor injuries)

Some hip fractures, especially pelvic fractures or minor dislocations, can heal without surgery. This is especially true if the cat is young or if the break has not displaced the bone.

• Strict cage rest (4-8 weeks): Cats are kept in a small cage or enclosed space to prevent movement. Jumping, running, or climbing is absolutely forbidden.

• Pain relievers: Your veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications (such as meloxicam) to reduce pain and swelling.

• Joint Supplements: Products like Puainta® Hip & Joint Glucosamine Chondroitin It can help rebuild cartilage and improve joint lubrication. This supplement includes glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and turmeric, all known to support joint repair and reduce inflammation naturally. It comes in a tasty, chewy form that's easy to mix with food or serve as a treat.

• Limited physical therapy: Once cleared by your veterinarian, gentle range-of-motion exercises can prevent muscle wasting.
  
  

Surgical interventions (for severe or displaced fractures)

If the bone is shattered, the hip is dislocated and unstable, or the cat is very active, surgery is usually the best option.

Common Surgeries:

• Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO): The damaged part of the "ball" of the hip joint is removed, allowing scar tissue to form a false joint. It sounds drastic, but cats do surprisingly well and regain almost normal mobility.

• Total hip replacement: Used in rare cases, usually in large or high-value breeds. An artificial joint is implanted to fully restore hip function.

• Fracture Plug or Plate: Involves the use of surgical hardware to realign and stabilize the bone.

Surgery Costs (US Estimate)

• FHO Surgery: $1,200 – $2,500

• Hip Replacement: $3,000 – $5,000+

• Basic (non-surgical) stabilization: $300 – $800 for medications, cage rest, and follow-ups

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Immediate postoperative care

• Crate Rest: Cats need to be confined for 4-8 weeks depending on severity. Use a spacious cage with bedding, a small litter box, and food and water bowls.

• Pain management: Your vet will likely prescribe opioids or NSAIDs for the first few weeks.

• E-Collar: Essential to avoid licking or chewing on surgical sites or stitches.

Long-term rehabilitation

• Gradual exercise: After your veterinarian's approval, begin encouraging low-impact movement, such as walking on carpeted surfaces.

• Massage and stretching: Gentle hip massages and leg stretches can stimulate circulation and prevent stiffness.

• Joint Supplements: Continuing with Puainta® Hip & Joint Glucosamine Chondroitin During the recovery process it helps reduce inflammation and promotes smoother movement. Long-term use can reduce the risk of arthritis after an injury.

  Shop Puainta® Hip and Joints Glucosamine Chondroitin for Cats

  A popular choice among cat owners, this supplement is specifically formulated for:

  • Reconstructing cartilage damaged during injury or surgery

  • Lubricates joints for ease of movement and prevents stiffness

  • Reduces inflammation naturally, promoting comfort and mobility
    
    

  Contains a veterinarian-recommended mix of:

  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin – essential for cartilage repair

  • MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) – to reduce inflammation and improve flexibility

  • Turmeric extract – a natural anti-inflammatory powerhouse

  ⇒The supplement comes in a mild, chewy form with a cat-friendly taste, making it ideal for picky eaters. You can crush it into food or offer it as a treat.

   

Preventing Hip Injuries in Cats

• Keep cats indoors or outdoors: Most traumatic injuries occur from outdoor accidents.

• Install cat shelves or ramps: Make it easier for aging cats or kittens to get to high places without risky jumps.

• Screen windows: Cats are notorious for jumping after birds or insects, which can lead to serious falls from open windows.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Obese cats put more pressure on their joints and are more prone to falls or joint injuries.

• Regular Veterinary Checkups: Early detection of joint problems such as hip dysplasia can prevent future injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can a cat survive with a broken hip?

Yes, cats can survive and recover from a hip fracture, especially with proper veterinary care. The outlook depends on the severity of the fracture and the treatment provided. 

How do you know if a cat's hip is broken?

Signs include lameness, swelling, vocalization when the hip is touched, and reluctance to move. A definitive diagnosis requires a veterinary examination and imaging tests. 

How much does it cost to fix a cat's broken hip?

The cost varies depending on the treatment method. Nonsurgical treatments can range from $500 to $1,000, while surgical options like FHO can cost between $1,500 and $4,000. 

How long does it take for a cat's broken hip to heal?

Recovery time depends on treatment. Non-surgical healing can take 6 to 12 weeks, while surgical recovery can be around 6 weeks, followed by rehabilitation.

Can a cat's hip heal on its own?

In some cases, minor fractures can heal without surgery, especially if the cat is confined and movement is restricted. However, veterinary guidance is crucial to ensure proper healing.

A hip fracture in cats is a serious condition, but with prompt and proper care, many cats make a full recovery. Understanding the signs, treatment options, and recovery process allows cat owners to make informed decisions for their pets' health.