Total hip replacement in a cat with contralateral pelvic limb amputation

A 10-year-old male neutered domestic shorthair cat, which had previously had its contralateral pelvic limb amputated, was treated for coxofemoral degenerative joint disease (DJD) with a total hip replacement. The long-term outcome was favourable and no complications were recorded. Interestingly, the contralateral coxofemoral joint left at the time of the previous amputation developed DJD and became a source of pain for the cat and was subsequently excised.

This case report shows that total hip replacement is a viable option in cats with coxofemoral DJD and a contralateral limb amputation. Retained joints in amputated limbs may develop osteoarthritis and be a source of pain for a cat.