Range of motion measurement in cats using a goniometer

In humans and different mammalian species, there are different validated measurements to quantify the degree of joint disease and the response to recommended treatment. In this regard, it is important to measure and validate the range of motion (ROM) of different joints with a reliable and rapid method to better understand joint diseases and the effects of treatments against the joint problems in cats. Although the radiologic method has been used for ROM measurements in cats, use of a simpler and non-invasive goniometric measurements is not common. Therefore, the aim of the current thesis was to demonstrate the reliability of goniometric joint measurements in healthy tabby and Scottish Fold cats by comparing the gonyometric measures with the radiologic method and to obtain reference values that can be used as a baseline in cats. For this purpose, a total of 42 cats (21 tabby and 21 Scottish Fold) without any previous joint health problems were used in the study. In these cats, radiologic and goniometric applications were performed by a single investigator and the results were statistically evaluated. No statistical difference was observed between the goniometric and radiologic measurements obtained at the end of the study. However, all ROM measurements except carpal extension were statistically different between Scottish Fold and tabby breeds. These findings indicated that goniometric measurements could potentially be used to monitor the progression of joint disease in cats and to follow the degree of improvement in joint motion in response to treatment procedures. Furthermore, it appears that breed characteristics have a significant effect on ROM and should be taken into account when establishing reference values for different cat breeds. Keywords: Goniometer, Cat, Radiographic measurement, Range of motion