Is my cat's hair loss on his knees linked to his funny walk?

Question

My cat has no hair just on the back of his knees. It's a small spot, maybe the size of a large pea. Other than occasionally walking a bit funny (with his legs bowed for an hour or so...and he seems to be in no pain), he seems unfazed by this. He is normally rather knock-kneed. My vet has done X-rays of his hind end for other issues and never mentioned any problems with his legs or knees. Could the bow-legged walking and missing hair be related? Are either of these worrisome? Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 2 years and 3 months old | 12 lbs

Jeffrey Milner · Accepted Answer

Orthopedic issues and dermatologic issue are not usually known for their close correlation. However, when they are related, it is usually because an orthopedic issue is causing pain or discomfort, and the licking makes the area in question feel less painful. Licking can certainly result in hair loss though you did not mention any licking in your post. If there has not been any licking, then I have serious doubts that the two issues are interconnected. As for whether or not they are a cause for concern, I am definitely not very worried about this small area of hair loss. It could just be an anomaly present in your cat for unknown reasons or a result of how his legs are bent in an odd fashion. In terms of the orthopedic issue, most pet owners are concerned with them when they cause pain or discomfort. In this case, there does not seem to be either. He has functioned this way fine for the last couple years and based on your post is not slowing down. Can I predict whether or not his malformed gait might cause early onset arthritis? No. But, ultimately you probably won't be able to have this condition repaired anyway. You can certainly consult with a surgeon about this if you would consider it however. If you want to be very proactive, I would start offering glucoasmine chondroitin and/or fish oil to promote joint health. Hope this helps!

Is my cat's hair loss on his knees linked to his funny walk?

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