Cats can dislocate their shoulders, a condition formally known as scapulohumeral luxation. This injury occurs when the head of the humerus separates completely from the glenoid cavity of the scapula (shoulder blade). While possible, this is considered an uncommon injury in felines compared to other orthopedic issues. The condition is painful and requires immediate veterinary attention to ensure the best possible outcome.
Why Feline Shoulder Dislocation is Rare
The feline shoulder joint, or glenohumeral joint, possesses a unique anatomical structure that provides a high degree of natural stability. Unlike many other joints, the shoulder relies less on strong collateral ligaments for support. Instead, the joint’s stability is primarily maintained by the surrounding, powerful muscle mass, including the “rotator cuff” muscles like the supraspinatus and subscapularis. This robust muscular support acts as a natural brace.
Because of this muscular protection, a shoulder luxation typically requires a significant, high-impact traumatic event to overcome the joint’s natural stability. Common causes include severe blunt trauma, such as being hit by a car, or a fall from a substantial height. The injury often involves a severe rotational force which tears the supporting soft tissues and allows the humerus to slip out of the socket. When a dislocation occurs, the most frequent direction of displacement is medially, toward the cat’s body midline.
Identifying the Symptoms
An owner will typically notice a sudden and severe onset of lameness in the affected forelimb immediately following a traumatic event. The cat will usually exhibit non-weight-bearing lameness, meaning they refuse to put any pressure on the injured leg. This is a strong indicator of a serious injury, as the joint is completely unstable and painful.
The limb may also appear to be held in an abnormal or visibly deformed position, which can sometimes be subtle. Owners might observe swelling and tenderness around the shoulder area, and the cat may vocalize or show aggression when the area is touched due to intense pain. Behavioral changes, such as hiding or a decrease in normal activity, are also common signs that a cat is experiencing significant discomfort.
What to Do After an Injury
Immediate Care
If a shoulder luxation is suspected, the most important immediate action is to keep the cat calm and restrict all movement of the injured limb. The cat should be gently placed into a secure carrier to prevent further damage to the joint or surrounding tissues. It is necessary to avoid any attempt to manipulate, pull, or “pop” the joint back into place, as this can cause additional soft tissue or nerve damage.
Diagnosis and Non-Surgical Treatment
A veterinarian will perform a physical examination and confirm the diagnosis using X-rays, which are also used to check for concurrent fractures. Treatment often begins with a closed reduction, where the joint is manually repositioned back into the socket while the cat is under general anesthesia. Following a successful reduction, the limb is typically immobilized in a specialized bandage, such as a Velpeau sling, for a period of two to four weeks to allow the joint capsule to heal.
Surgical Intervention and Prognosis
If the closed reduction is unsuccessful, or if the joint proves to be unstable and repeatedly dislocates, surgical stabilization becomes necessary. Surgical options may involve repairing or augmenting the damaged ligaments and joint capsule to restore stability. With prompt and appropriate treatment, the long-term prognosis for a cat with a traumatic shoulder luxation is generally good, with most animals returning to normal function.