Broken bones (fractures) in dogs and cats are serious medical emergencies that require prompt veterinary attention. In active communities like West Vancouver—where pets frequently encounter stairs, balconies, hiking trails, vehicles, and other animals—fractures are more common than many pet owners realize. Unfortunately, broken bones are not always obvious. Some pets continue to walk, eat, or behave “almost normal,” masking potentially severe orthopedic injuries.
At NorthCare Animal Hospital, we see many cases where delayed treatment leads to complications such as improper bone healing, chronic pain, nerve damage, or permanent mobility issues. Understanding early warning signs, fracture types, and when to seek emergency care can make a life-changing difference for your pet.
Common Signs of Broken Bones in Dogs & Cats (Clinical Overview)
| Clinical Sign | What It May Indicate | Urgency Level |
|---|---|---|
| Limping or non–weight bearing | Long bone fracture (radius, ulna, femur, tibia) | High |
| Swelling or bruising | Soft tissue trauma or bone displacement | High |
| Abnormal limb angle | Displaced or comminuted fracture | Critical |
| Crying or vocalizing when touched | Acute pain or nerve involvement | High |
| Reluctance to move or jump | Pelvic, spinal, or joint fracture | High |
| Behavioral changes (hiding, aggression) | Pain response in cats especially | Moderate–High |
| Visible bone or open wound | Open (compound) fracture | Critical |
| Lethargy or shock symptoms | Internal trauma associated with fracture | Critical |
What Causes Broken Bones in Pets?
Fractures occur when mechanical force exceeds bone strength. In West Vancouver, the most common causes include:
Vehicle collisions (dogs hit by cars, cats struck outdoors)
Falls from balconies, stairs, or furniture
Dog-on-dog altercations
High-impact play or hiking accidents
Crush injuries (doors, gates, heavy objects)
Pathologic fractures due to bone disease, cancer, or nutritional deficiencies
Cats are particularly vulnerable to high-rise syndrome, while dogs more often sustain fractures from trauma or sports-related injuries.
Types of Fractures Veterinarians Diagnose
Understanding fracture classification helps explain treatment urgency and cost.
Closed vs Open Fractures
Closed fracture: Skin intact, bone broken underneath
Open (compound) fracture: Bone exposed through skin → true Pet Emergency
Simple vs Comminuted Fractures
Simple fracture: Bone breaks into two pieces
Comminuted fracture: Bone shattered into multiple fragments
Stable vs Unstable Fractures
Stable: Bone alignment maintained
Unstable: High risk of displacement and soft tissue damage
Growth Plate (Physeal) Fractures
Common in puppies and kittens
Can affect long-term limb development
Why Broken Bones Are a Pet Emergency
A fracture is more than a broken bone—it often involves:
Muscle tearing
Blood vessel damage
Nerve injury
Internal bleeding
Severe pain and inflammation
Delaying treatment increases the risk of:
Malunion (bone heals incorrectly)
Non-union (bone fails to heal)
Chronic arthritis
Permanent lameness
If you suspect a fracture, seek Pet Emergency care immediately.
Emergency Symptoms That Require Immediate Veterinary Care
Call NorthCare Animal Hospital at 604-984-1464 or visit immediately if your pet shows:
Inability to stand or walk
Severe swelling or deformity
Bone visible through the skin
Sudden collapse or weakness
Signs of shock (pale gums, rapid breathing, lethargy)
Extreme pain or vocalization
We are open 7 days a week, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM, offering both emergency and walk-in service.
How Broken Bones Are Diagnosed
Veterinary diagnosis involves a multi-step orthopedic assessment:
Physical & neurological exam
Pain localization
Digital X-rays (radiographs)
Advanced imaging (if spinal or pelvic injury suspected)
Blood work to assess shock or surgical readiness
Accurate diagnosis ensures the correct stabilization method is chosen.
Treatment Options for Fractures in Dogs & Cats
Treatment depends on fracture type, location, age, and health status.
Non-Surgical Management
Splints or casts
Restricted activity
Pain management and anti-inflammatories
Appropriate for stable, non-displaced fractures
Surgical Repair
Bone plates and screws
Pins and wires
External fixators
Required for unstable, displaced, or open fractures
Surgery restores alignment, promotes faster healing, and reduces long-term complications.
Pain Management & Recovery
Fractures cause severe orthopedic pain. At NorthCare Animal Hospital, pain control may include:
Opioid analgesics
NSAIDs (when appropriate)
Local nerve blocks
Post-operative rehabilitation guidance
Recovery typically ranges from 6–12 weeks, depending on severity.
Special Considerations for Cats
Cats instinctively hide pain. Warning signs may include:
Not jumping
Staying hidden
Refusing the litter box
Sudden aggression
Never assume a cat “just needs rest.” Many cats seen in West Vancouver present late with advanced fractures due to subtle symptoms.
Preventing Fractures in Pets
While accidents happen, prevention reduces risk:
Secure balconies and windows
Keep cats indoors or supervised
Use leashes near traffic
Avoid rough play with size-mismatched dogs
Schedule routine wellness exams
When to Choose NorthCare Animal Hospital
Pet owners trust NorthCare Animal Hospital because we provide:
Experienced emergency veterinarians
Advanced digital imaging
Surgical fracture repair
Walk-in and emergency availability
Convenient access for West Vancouver and North Vancouver families
📞 Call: 604-984-1464
🕗 Open 7 days a week, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Final Thoughts
Broken bones in dogs and cats are time-sensitive emergencies. Early diagnosis, proper stabilization, and expert orthopedic care significantly improve outcomes. If your pet shows any warning signs of a fracture, don’t wait—seek immediate veterinary attention.
Your pet’s mobility, comfort, and long-term quality of life depend on it.