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Bone fracture

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.02.2026

Dog with a broken leg and bandage

Broken bone (fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization.)
A fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. is the complete or partial interruption of bone continuity, usually due to traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries. or, less often, due to bone diseases. Symptoms include pain, lameness, malalignment, instability, and sometimes open wounds in open fractures. Fractures often need to be stabilized as an emergency to avoid further tissue damage.

A bone fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization., medically referred to as a fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization., is a structural interruption of the continuity of a bone. In our pets, dogs and cats, fractures can affect various bones and occur in different forms. Basically, a distinction is made between closed fractures, where the skin remains intact, and open fractures, where the bone penetrates the skin and thus there is an increased risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Furthermore, fractures are classified according to their shape: transverse, oblique, spiral, comminuted and splinter fractures describe the different fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. patterns. In growing animals, special fractures of the growth plates can also occur, which require special attention because they can affect further growth.

The bone structure in dogs and cats is basically similar to that in humans, but there are species-specific differences in resilience and healing tendency. While cats often suffer less severe fractures due to their lower body massIn pathology, the term “mass” is used to describe an abnormal lump or growth in the body. A mass can form in the skin or subcutaneous tissue, or even inside the body. The causes can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). and higher mobility, dogs can exhibit more complex fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. patterns depending on breed and size. Bone healing occurs in several phases: first the inflammatory phase, followed by the formation of a soft callus, which is then converted to hard bone tissue, until finally the remodeling phase completes the healing process.

Causes

Bone fractures are caused by a severe traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries. or getting a limb caught. Veterinary assistance is essential.

Bone fractures in pets are mainly caused by external force. Traffic accidents are the most common cause, especially in free-roaming cats and unsupervised dogs. Falls from a great height, especially in cats from windows or balconies (so-called “high-rise syndrome”), often lead to multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. fractures. In dogs, collisions with other animals or people, as well as accidents during play or romping, can also lead to bone fractures.

In addition to traumatic events, pathologicalPathological refers to anything related to diseases or their processes. Pathological changes are those that deviate from the normal structure or function and indicate a disease. factors can also promote fractures. These include bone tumorsBone tumors are growths of tissue in the bone that can be benign or malignant. Malignant bone tumors are known as bone cancer and can originate in the bone tissue itself or spread from other parts of the body (metastasis)., which weaken the bone and can lead to so-called pathologicalPathological refers to anything related to diseases or their processes. Pathological changes are those that deviate from the normal structure or function and indicate a disease. fractures, in which even minor stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. is sufficient to cause a fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization.. MetabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. diseases such as hyperparathyroidism or kidney failureRenal failure is a condition in which the kidneys can no longer adequately perform their function of filtering and excreting waste products from the blood. It can be acute or chronic and requires immediate medical treatment. can reduce bone substance by disrupting calciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. balance. In older animals, osteoporosis can weaken the bone structure, while in young, fast-growing dogs of large breeds, a calcium-phosphorus imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. can lead to brittle bones.

Breed-specific predispositions also play a role. Small dog breeds such as Chihuahuas or Yorkshire Terriers have relatively thin bones and are prone to limb fractures. In sighthound breeds such as Greyhounds or Whippets, fatigue fractures occur more frequently due to their high running speed. Certain breeding lines may also have genetically determined bone diseases that increase the risk of fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization..

Symptoms

Broken bone (fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization.) in dogs and cats

Typical Symptoms:

AcuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. severe lameness or non-weight bearing
Pain, swelling, instability, malalignment
Avoiding touch, possibly crepitation

Alarm signs:

Open fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization., severe bleeding
Malposition/”hanging” limb, severe pain
Accompanying signs of shock after traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries.
Neurological deficits distally (no paw placement)

Escalation/course:

Increasing swelling/pain in hours → compartment syndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. possible
Immobilization is missing → tissue damage/blood loss increases
Later: infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in open fractures, necrosisNecrosis is the Death of tissue in a living organism, caused by factors such as injury, infection, or lack of blood supply. Necrotic tissue can cause Inflammatory conditions and further health problems.

In the case of bone fractures on the legs, the animal can no longer use this limb. It shows great pain. The affected limb appears deformed. If the skin is cut, there may be severe bleeding.

The clinical signs of a bone fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. vary depending on the location and severity, but are usually clearly recognizable. The most noticeable symptom is a sudden lameness up to complete relief of the affected limb. In fractures of the spine, neurological deficits such as paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. or coordination disorders can occur. Pain is expressed through vocalizations (Whining, howling, screaming), aggressiveness when touching the affected area, or general restlessness.

Externally recognizable changes include swelling, abnormal mobility of the affected body region, and malalignment of the limb. In open fractures, the skin is injured, and bone parts may be visible. Often, discoloration of the surrounding skin due to bruising is also observed. The animal typically shows altered behavior such as decreased activity, loss of appetite, or withdrawal behavior due to pain.

In fractures of the skull or pelvis, additional specific symptoms may occur. Skull fractures can lead to disturbances of consciousness, balance problems, or bleeding from the nose or ears. Pelvic fractures often manifest as a characteristic “duck gait” or difficulty urinating and defecating. In rib fractures, breathing may be impaired, which can manifest as shallow, rapid breathing or even shortness of breath.

First Aid

In case of a very strong, pulsating bleeding, try to stop it.
Cover the wound with a clean cloth and apply pressure to the wound.
Apply a bandage (> Bleeding).
Do not try to put the bone in the correct position.
If bones are protruding, do not try to push them back.
If necessary, after applying a temporary bandage, you can apply a splint to immobilize the injured leg.
Do not manipulate too much. These and defensive movements of the animal can lead to further damage to blood vessels, nerves and surrounding muscles.
If necessary, just wrap your animal in a blanket and drive to a veterinarian.
If you fear further injuries to skull bones or internal organs, move your animal as little as possible.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of a bone fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. begins with a thorough clinical examination by the veterinarian. First, a medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. is taken, in which the owner is asked about the circumstances of the accident or injury. During the general examination, vital parameters such as heart rate, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. rate and body temperature are checked to assess the general condition of the animal and to detect possible signs of shock.

Diagnostic imagingDiagnostic imaging includes medical procedures that create images of the inside of the body to diagnose, monitor, or treat diseases and injuries. Examples include X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). is crucial for the accurate assessment of the fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization.. X-rays in at least two planes (lateralLateral refers to the side of the body or a body part, as opposed to medial, which describes a position closer to the midline of the body. In veterinary medicine, it is used to describe the location of structures or injuries. and ventrodorsal/anterior-posterior) are the standard procedure and allow the determination of fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. type, location and extent. In more complex fractures, especially in the area of joints, spine or skull, further diagnostic imagingDiagnostic imaging includes medical procedures that create images of the inside of the body to diagnose, monitor, or treat diseases and injuries. Examples include X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). procedures such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. may be required to obtain more detailed information.

In addition, laboratory tests can be performed to assess the general health status and identify possible underlying diseases. A blood count can provide information on inflammatory conditions or blood loss, while biochemical parameters such as calciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction., phosphorusPhosphorus is a vital mineral found in bones and teeth, playing a central role in energy metabolism and DNA. A balanced phosphorus to calcium ratio is essential for the health of dogs and cats., and alkaline phosphataseAlkaline phosphatase is an enzyme found in various tissues of the body, including the liver, bones, and intestines. It plays a role in the process of breaking down and transporting phosphate in the body. Elevated levels may indicate a number of conditions, including liver disease and bone growth disorders. can provide information on bone metabolism. If a pathologicalPathological refers to anything related to diseases or their processes. Pathological changes are those that deviate from the normal structure or function and indicate a disease. fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. is suspected, specific tests for tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. markers or metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. diseases may be indicated.

Further veterinary measures

Bone fractures are usually treated surgically (Fig.).
Depending on the location of the fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. and the type of bone fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization., various methods and materials are used.
In order to achieve a resilient connection between the fragments immediately after surgical treatment, screws, plates, intramedullary nails, wires and external fixators made of metal are used. Nevertheless, immobilization for approx. 5 months is necessary for the fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. to heal.
Some of the materials inserted to stabilize the fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. must be removed again after completion of the healing process.

Supplements

The treatment of bone fractures depends on the type, location and severity of the fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization., as well as on the general condition of the animal. Basically, a distinction is made between conservative and surgical therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. approaches. Conservative treatment is considered for stable, non- or only minimally displaced fractures and includes immobilization by bandages, splints or plaster casts. This method is particularly suitable for fractures in young animals with high healing potential or for certain fractures of the forefoot or toes.

Surgical treatment is the method of choice for most fractures. Various osteosynthesis procedures are available: plate osteosynthesis provides stable fixation and is often used for fractures of long bones. Intramedullary nails are inserted intramedullary and are particularly suitable for shaft fractures. External fixators consist of pins that are passed through the bone and connected to rods outside the body – a good option for open or infected fractures. For small fragments or joint fractures, lag screws or Kirschner wires are used.

PerioperativePerioperative refers to the time immediately before, during, and after a surgical procedure. In veterinary medicine, perioperative care encompasses all measures taken to ensure the safety and well-being of dogs and cats during this time. management includes analgesicAn analgesic is a medication used to relieve Pain without affecting the patient's level of consciousness. therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., antibiotic administration for open fractures, and fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. if necessary. For pain treatment, opioids, NSAIDsNSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, a class of medications used to relieve pain, reduce inflammatory conditions, and lower fever without using steroidal agents. They are a commonly used pain reliever in veterinary medicine. (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain.) or local anesthetics are mainly used. The choice and combination of analgesics depends on the pain intensity and the individual patient. In open fractures, careful wound care with thorough cleaning and debridement is necessary to avoid infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Prognosis and aftercare

The prognosis for bone fractures depends on various factors. Basically, simple, closed fractures have a better chance of healing than complex or open fractures. The age of the animal also plays a crucial role: in young animals, bone fractures usually heal faster and with fewer complications than in older animals. The location of the fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. significantly influences the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. – joint fractures often have a worse prognosis than shaft fractures, as they can more often lead to arthrosis. Timely and adequate treatment is also an important prognostic factor.

Follow-up care includes regular check-ups with X-rays to monitor the healing process. In the first weeks after surgery or the application of a bandage, strict limited mobility is necessary to avoid endangering the stability of the fracture. The duration of this immobilization varies depending on the fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. type and the treatment method chosen, but is usually 4-8 weeks. This is followed by a gradual increase in activity.

Physiotherapeutic measures play an important role in rehabilitation. These can include passive range of motion exercises, controlled weight-bearing exercises, underwater treadmill training, or massages. The goal is to avoid muscle atrophyMuscle atrophy is the loss of muscle mass that can be caused by inactivity, malnutrition, or certain diseases. In dogs and cats, muscle atrophy can occur due to chronic diseases, aging, or after prolonged immobilization., promote blood circulation, and maintain or restore joint mobility. In addition, heat applications, ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. or TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) can be used. During aftercare at home, attention must be paid to an adapted environment – non-slip floors, no stairs and, if necessary, aids such as harnesses with carrying handles can facilitate mobility.

Summary

Bone fractures in dogs and cats are a common emergency situation in small animal practice. They are mainly caused by traumatic events such as traffic accidents or falls, but can also be favored by pathologicalPathological refers to anything related to diseases or their processes. Pathological changes are those that deviate from the normal structure or function and indicate a disease. changes in the bone structure. The clinical signs include lameness, pain, swelling, and abnormal mobility or malalignment of the affected body region. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by clinical examination in conjunction with diagnostic imagingDiagnostic imaging includes medical procedures that create images of the inside of the body to diagnose, monitor, or treat diseases and injuries. Examples include X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)., with X-rays being the most important diagnostic tool.

The treatment options range from conservative measures such as bandages and splints to various surgical techniques of osteosynthesis. The choice of the appropriate therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. depends on the type and location of the fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization., as well as on the general condition of the patient. The postoperativePostoperative refers to the time after a surgical operation. This phase includes recovery and the management of possible complications after the procedure. phase and aftercare are crucial for the healing success and include limited mobility, pain management and, if necessary, physiotherapeutic measures.

The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is good in most cases with correct diagnosis and adequate treatment, whereby the healing process should be monitored by regular check-ups. Complications such as delayed bone healing, infections, or implant failure require special attention. With modern treatment methods and comprehensive aftercare, most patients can achieve a full functional recovery.

Outlook on current research

Research in the field of fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. treatment in small animals is constantly evolving. A promising approach is the use of biological therapies to support bone healing. Platelet-rich plasmaPlasma is the liquid part of blood in which blood cells are suspended. It contains water, salts, proteins, and other substances and serves as a transport medium for nutrients, hormones, and waste products. (PRP) and mesenchymal stem cells show positive effects on healing speed and quality in initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies, especially in complicated fractures or pseudoarthrosis. These autologous procedures use the body’s own resources to promote regeneration and can be used as a supplement to conventional treatment methods.

There are also significant advances in the field of implant technology. Bioactive coatings on osteosynthesis materials can improve osseointegration and reduce the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Resorbable implants made of polymers or magnesiumMagnesium is a vital mineral that plays a role in various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. In dogs and cats, a magnesium deficiency can lead to health problems. alloys offer the advantage that no second operation is necessary to remove the implant and reduce the risk of stress-shielding effects. 3D printing technology also enables the production of patient-specific implants that are precisely adapted to the individual anatomy – particularly valuable for complex fractures or reconstructions.

Minimally invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. surgical techniques are also becoming increasingly important in veterinary medicine. Percutaneous plate osteosynthesis and arthroscopically assisted fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. care can reduce soft tissue traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries., thereby reducing complications and shortening rehabilitation time. The further development of imaging techniques such as intraoperative 3D imaging or augmented reality support during operations promises more precise placement of implants and thus better treatment results.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How do I know if my animal has suffered a bone fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization.?
Typical signs are sudden lameness, pain, swelling, abnormal mobility, or visible malalignment of the affected body region. The animal usually does not put weight on the injured limb and shows pain reactions when touched.
Is a bone fracture always an emergency?
Yes, any suspicion of a bone fracture should be considered an emergency. Even if there is no open wound, complications such as vascular or nerve injuries can occur. Timely veterinary care significantly improves the chances of healing.
How do I transport my animal with suspected bone fracture to the vet?
Move the animal as little as possible. Small animals can be transported in a stable box. For larger dogs, it is best to use a solid base such as a board. Only fix the injured limb if this is possible without resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins..
How long does it take for a bone fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. to heal in a dog or cat?
The healing time varies depending on the age of the animal, the type and location of the fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization., and the treatment method chosen. On average, it is 4-12 weeks, with young animals healing faster than older ones.
What complications can occur during healing?
Possible complications include infections (especially in open fractures), delayed bone healing or pseudarthrosis (failure to heal), implant failure, malalignment, and secondary arthrosis in fractures near joints.
Does my pet need to wear a special bandage after an operation for fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. repair?
This depends on the type of operation. For internal fixation with plates or intramedullary nails, an additional bandage is often not necessary. For external fixation or certain fractures, a supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. bandage may be required.
How can I help my animal at home after fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization. treatment?
Strictly follow the limited mobility, provide a non-slip environment, avoid stairs and jumps. Pay attention to correct medication and observe the surgical wound for signs of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
Can my animal fully recover after a bone fractureA fracture is a break in a bone caused by physical force, such as a fall, blow, or accident. Fractures can range from simple breaks that do not require operative treatment to complex fractures that require surgical stabilization.?
With uncomplicated fractures and adequate treatment, a full recovery is usually possible. In complex fractures, especially in the joint area, limited mobility or chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. pain may remain.
Are certain dog or cat breeds more susceptible to bone fractures?
Small dog breeds with thin bones (e.g. Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier) and sighthound breeds with high running speed have an increased risk. In cats, no clear breed predispositions are known, but certain genetic diseases can weaken the bone structure.
What preventive measures can I take to avoid bone fractures?
Keep dogs on a leash on busy roads, secure windows and balconies for cats, ensure a balanced diet with adequate calciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. supply, and avoid excessive romping on slippery floors or uneven surfaces.

Literature

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Löwe, G. and Löwe, O. (2021). Emergencies in dogs and cats – A veterinary Guide. Kynos-Verlag. 208 pp.
DeCamp CE, Johnston SA, Déjardin LM, Schaefer SL. Brinker, Piermattei, and Flo’s Handbook of Small Animal Orthopedics and Fracture Repair. 5th edition. St. Louis: Elsevier; 2020.
Montavon PM, Voss K, Langley-Hobbs SJ. Feline Orthopedic Surgery and Musculoskeletal Disease. 2nd Edition. Philadelphia: Elsevier; 2022.
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