Disorder - Third hind leg

Organ Systems Involved
Musculoskeletal

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Polydactyly; Sacral dysgenesis; Spina bifida; Spinal dysplasia; Vertebral anomalies

Alternative Names
Polyscelia; Polymelia

Presenting Signs

Third hind leg is a condition in which a cat is born with an additional hind limb. The additional limb originates from the pelvis like a normal leg, but the bones of the hip and leg are abnormally developed. This causes some difficulty for the cat in moving around, but they can learn to compensate for their abnormalities and survive to adulthood. Joint problems such as arthritis are likely to develop due to the deformity of the joints. Cats with a third hind limb may also have an abnormally developed spine. The bones of the spine (vertebrae) may be fused together or not fully enclose the spinal cord, which is a condition known as spina bifida. Spina bifida may result in nerve problems in the hindquarters, causing incoordination and poor control of defecation and urination.

Cats at Risk

Characteristics within a breed that predispose to third hind leg have not been identified.

Treatment

Surgical: amputation of the limb could be attempted if significant organs and body structures are not involved.

Contributor
Adrian Anderson