![](http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QbEuJ06elxU/TyGsDn4Un0I/AAAAAAAACVU/RTNE4bGG8CY/s400/IMG119.jpg)
But, common in Maine Coons, Nummy has been diagnosed with feline hip dysplasia. It can happen a lot in Maine Coons and the bigger the animal the more serious the problem. As you can see Nummy is a VERY big cat and his condition is serious (this picture was taken before the symptoms settled in).
![](http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EnznjiWDxIk/TyGsDm3RA9I/AAAAAAAACVc/hyvBFeAaF9E/s400/Nummy.jpg)
He is due to have his femurs cropped (the failing balls of the joint cut off) in due course, and I did some research.
"Restricting exercise, such as limiting access to outdoors or the ability to climb up on objects, can be helpful as well. For severely affected cats, a surgery called a femoral head and neck excision arthroplasty is widely available that removes the damaged tissue. Cats that have had this surgery can usually expect a full return of hip function and freedom from pain and discomfort once post-operative healing has occurred."
That sounds so positive, it would be wonderful if this big chap got another chance - he's only 18 months old and that is just too young to creak about like me!
cq