Many systems in the body rely on the muscles. A cat’s ability to see, breathe, urinate, breed, and even chew and swallow may be affected by a muscular condition. Many disorders can show themselves in the muscles but be traced back to the nervous system. Disorders that primarily affect the muscle membrane or muscle fibers are called myopathies. Muscle membrane disorders may be hereditary or acquired. Diagnosing a myopathy usually requires laboratory tests.
Tendons do not stretch, so they are prone to injury and may become torn if a large amount of force is applied to them. Such injuries lead to tendinitis, which is inflammation of the tendons. Because tendons and ligaments are relatively poorly supplied with blood, they heal slowly and sometimes imperfectly. Injuries to ligaments and tendons require patience and careful, longterm rehabilitation. Healed tendons are not as strong and are prone to future injuries.
Bone diseases are generally present at birth or the result of nutritional deficiencies or injuries. Having extra toes (polydactyly) is an example of a hereditary disorder. An imbalanced level of minerals in the diet, particularly of trace minerals such as copper, zinc, and magnesium, is a common dietary cause of bone defects. Growing animals that are fed too much protein or have an improper balance of calcium and phosphorus can also develop nutritional disorders affecting bones. Getting either too much or too little of certain vitamins, particularly vitamins A and D, can influence bone growth and development. Most bone disorders stem from some sort of trauma, such as fractures or cracks. Infections that cause bone tissue to break down and die can lead to bone disorders. In other situations, diseases of the ligaments or tendons may cause secondary bone troubles.
Movable joints are vulnerable to joint diseases or disorders affecting their membranes as well as related ligaments, cartilage, and bone. Joint disorders may be caused by trauma to the joint, longterm inflammation, developmental problems, or infections. Traumatic injuries may produce short-term consequences, such as dislocation, fracture, or the distortion (instability) of a joint. More longterm effects may include arthritis or the rupture of nearby ligaments or membranes.
Chronic (longterm) inflammation is most commonly seen in joints associated with movement. The effects of longterm inflammation can be complicated. Any joint injury changes the composition and amount of fluid inside the joint, which affects the amount of pressure on the connecting bones.
Recent years have seen great advances in techniques to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal disorders. When detected early, the disorders often can be corrected, and a full return to healthy life is possible. It is important to follow your veterinarian's recommendations closely.
Also see professional content regarding musculoskeletal disorders.
