When abnormal stress is placed upon the skeletal system, fractures of the bones may occur. There are several fracture types based on the name of the bone broken and the characteristics of the break itself. 

Types of fractures:

There are four common fractures in cats: closed, compound, epiphyseal (growth plate), and greenstick (hairline). Closed Fractures: Closed fractures are those in which the skin is not broken. The bone is fractured, but the overlying skin is intact. 

Compound Fractures:

 Compound fractures are breaks in which the broken bone protrudes through the skin, and is exposed to the outside. Compound fractures are risky in that the bones can be contaminated with dirt and debris, resulting in an infection. 

Epiphyseal Fractures:

 Epiphyseal fractures are commonly seen in young, growing cats. The distal ends of the femur (thigh bone) and humerus (upper front leg) seem to be particularly susceptible to this fracture. 

Greenstick Fractures: 

Greenstick fractures are small cracks within the bone which leave the bone basically intact, but cracked. In other words, the bone is not completely broken. Fractures involving a joint are the most serious. 

Treatment:

Just as in human medicine, splints, casts, pins, steel plates, and screws can be used to realign the bone and allow healing. The treatment depends on the type of fracture, age of the cat, and which bone is broken. Compound fractures in which the risk of infection is high are treated differently than closed fractures. Hairline fractures may only require rest, while surgical intervention will usually be needed in more severe fractures. Also there is medication like Cosequin for Cats or Glyco-Flex I for Cats with nutritional supplements to help cats maintain healthy joints. As cats age, it is common for their joints to become less flexible which impacts their mobility and quality of life. Cosequin for Cats is a patented, exclusive formula to support and maintain the health of your cat’s joints. Cosequin for Cats is #1 veterinarian-recommended joint health supplement.
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