Investigating swollen joints in dogs and cats

Abstract

Dogs and cats can present with acute or chronic swollen joint(s) which may or may not be associated with concurrent systemic signs of illness. Joint swelling may occur spontaneously, or with a history of trauma or previous surgery. Such cases can pose a diagnostic challenge, and understanding the underlying pathophysiology relating to the potential diagnoses is key to informing further investigations, achieving a prompt diagnosis and initiating appropriate early treatment. No diagnostic test should be interpreted in isolation, and every case requires thorough history taking, physical examination and selective use of blood testing and imaging. In conjunction with this, arthrocentesis in an invaluable tool suitable for general practice as well as referral practice. Practitioners should be encouraged to use arthrocentesis early in the diagnostic process to guide their management of patients with swollen joints, thereby optimising patient outcomes.