The phrase
"floating kneecaps" refers to a condition called patellar luxation, where the kneecap moves out of its normal position and isn't properly held in place.
Full definition
Years ago, veterinarians advised owners of dogs
with floating kneecaps to prevent their pets from moving around.
Unfortunately, some of our pets experience orthopedic injuries such as cruciate repairs and luxating patellas (
aka floating kneecap).
Today Dr. Karen Becker discusses the painful condition known
as floating kneecaps, or luxating patellas.
Knee problems like «
floating kneecaps» or luxating patellas can also cause difficulties.
(That's Vet - Speak for «
floating kneecap.»)
The most common underlying causes of osteoarthritis are developmental abnormalities, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia or luxating patellas (
floating kneecap), and previous injuries, such as a cranial cruciate rupture (torn ligament), elbow luxation (dislocated elbow) or traumatic damage to the joint.
Your vet will be on the lookout, but he or she can also give you a run - down on issues that might occur, like «
floating kneecaps» in purebred Miniature Poodles.
I'm not a proponent of surgery for
a floating kneecap unless the condition is destroying your dog's quality of life.
• The first thing you should do for a dog diagnosed with
a floating kneecap is help him achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.
Legg - Calve - Perthes disease, hypoglycemia, heart problems, open fontanel (small holes in the skull), epilepsy, collapsed trachea, hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain), eye problems, dental problems and patellar luxation (
floating kneecap).