Should I adopt a 3-legged dog? What are the potential health issues?

Oh, yay for you!!! “Tripods” are awesome. As far as post op complications, if he’s 3 weeks out and the vet at the shelter feels he’s healed well, you don’t have any complications to worry about, per se. Be aware that he can’t defend himself as well, so it is CRUCIAL that he be indoor only. He also won’t be quite as much of a “jumper” as most cats and you may find that he can jump up easily and then hesitate to jump down. If he jumps down from a height and has only 1 leg to land on, he does have an increased risk of injuring that leg; however in a young healthy cat that’s still quite unlikely to be an issue. Do not allow him to get overweight; if he becomes overweight he’s more likely to have mobility and pain problems. Other than that, he’s a totally normal cat!! You will love him so much!! (As he will you!!) Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!!

If the leg has been amputated in the past and is well healed, there should be no need for concern. Dogs adjust quickly and after the operation has healed there should be no pain or need for concern. Making sure he has level ground and good grips on the floor is important but hopefully he adjusts well and you enjoy your new adopted Dog!

Dogs that have their legs amputated typically do amazing. Just make sure she rests right now to recover from surgery but once she has recovered she will run just like before! Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Playing the odds based on Skylar's breed and the fact that she has a tumor in the leg I would assume it is potentially a primary bone tumor such as osteosarcoma though of course your veterinarian would know better. Regardless of the tumor type, if they already made the determination of amputating her leg as the next step I can tell you that most dogs tolerate being on 3 legs very well and get around just fine even if older. Only dealing with cancer patients myself I have a lot of cancer patients that are three-legged and do great. As long as she does not have another orthopedic or neurologic condition that affects her ambulation, she would likely be ok in three legs. Good luck!

Hello, & thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. This is most certainly a congenital problem, essentially a birth defect. Whether there are any treatments depends on how severe the problem is, does it involve all the long bones in the legs, it this mainly a problem with joint & tendon laxity, or are certain structures underdeveloped or missing all together. X-rays are imperative. Depending on what is seen, & how much time & money you wish to spend on this poor little guy would determine a treatment plan. Surgery may be an option, but leg braces & splints may be appropriate, too. In the short term, he will probably do fine, but with time & age, he may be very prone to developing abrasions & pressure sores, & most likely arthritis. If you decide to adopt this sweet guy, go in with the anticipation of higher than normal care costs, & unexpected problems that can arise. A special needs pet needs a very special owner. Thank you for considering adoption. Take care.

I would recommend a veterinary evaluation. Cats often do fine with only 3 legs but there may be another abnormality that could cause pain or problems later on. In some cases it may be recommended to amputate the stump if there are other issues or trauma to leg. Good luck and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Three-legged cats do well. I see no reason why it would affect her giving birth and nursing. Ideally pain medications should be continued for a week or more based on how the cat is doing. There is some what of a risk to the unborn babies giving pain medications so care is warranted. Ultimately she will be fine! You guys saved her and her babies! Have a great day!