Cruciate Ligament Disease in Cats

Cruciate ligament disease in cats involves damage to one of the stabilising bands of tissue inside the knee joint. These ligaments normally prevent the bones of the lower leg from sliding forward relative to the thigh bone during movement. When a cruciate ligament is weakened or torn, the joint becomes less stable, which can lead to discomfort, altered movement, and changes in the joint over time. Owners often notice a cat favouring one back leg, moving more carefully, or spending less time on higher surfaces. The change in mobility may come on suddenly after a jump or twist, or it may develop more gradually. Some cats show only subtle differences in how they use the leg, particularly in the early stages. This page explores the patterns that may suggest cruciate ligament involvement, the changes that occur within and around the joint, the investigations that help clarify what is happening, and the range of approaches used to manage the condition in cats.