- May 29, 2019
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My 6 y/o EE started limping a few days ago, very subtly. Generally, she walks normally and still uses both legs, though as she speeds up to a run her limp becomes way more noticeable (hop/skip type thing).
At first, I figured it could be a minor sprain so a gave it a couple days. She seemed to get better only to get visibly worse yesterday (limping even when walking); yet this morning is back to limping when running only.
I've examined her right leg/foot several times and there is no sign of bumblefoot whatsoever, nor swelling, redness, or visible injury. I did notice a couple times one or both of her legs had tiny blood spots, which I since discovered was from a giant buffalo gnat that had kept biting her (working on solving that problem). Would that cause a limp?
I've been hesitant to cage her as she is getting around well and the injury doesn't seem to be affecting her typical zeal for eating/drinking/scratching around/hunting--and she is quick as ever to rush me for treats. She still roosts, but all of our roost areas are low (1 ft and under). She also is one to get bullied if she is separated for any length of time. They are limited to their run with some supervised free range time morning and evening.
Thoughts on the issue and best approaches? If a sprain, how long does it take to heal? I'm hoping it's just a sprain and not something more serious.
At first, I figured it could be a minor sprain so a gave it a couple days. She seemed to get better only to get visibly worse yesterday (limping even when walking); yet this morning is back to limping when running only.
I've examined her right leg/foot several times and there is no sign of bumblefoot whatsoever, nor swelling, redness, or visible injury. I did notice a couple times one or both of her legs had tiny blood spots, which I since discovered was from a giant buffalo gnat that had kept biting her (working on solving that problem). Would that cause a limp?
I've been hesitant to cage her as she is getting around well and the injury doesn't seem to be affecting her typical zeal for eating/drinking/scratching around/hunting--and she is quick as ever to rush me for treats. She still roosts, but all of our roost areas are low (1 ft and under). She also is one to get bullied if she is separated for any length of time. They are limited to their run with some supervised free range time morning and evening.
Thoughts on the issue and best approaches? If a sprain, how long does it take to heal? I'm hoping it's just a sprain and not something more serious.
