FHO Surgery: What Is It and How Does It Help Pets?

At Dominion Valley Animal Hospital, we understand how distressing it can be to hear that your pet might need surgery. One procedure that often causes confusion is FHO, or Femoral Head Ostectomy. While the name might sound intimidating, FHO is a trusted and effective surgical technique used to relieve hip pain and restore mobility—especially in dogs and cats who suffer from chronic joint issues or trauma.

So, what exactly is FHO surgery? In simple terms, this procedure involves removing the head and neck of the femur—the “ball” part of the ball-and-socket hip joint. By removing the damaged portion of the joint, the body responds by forming a "false joint" made of scar tissue and muscle. While this newly formed joint isn't as mechanically perfect as the original, it eliminates bone-on-bone contact, which can significantly reduce pain and allow for surprisingly good function, especially in smaller pets.

FHO is commonly recommended for pets dealing with severe hip dysplasia, dislocations that can't be corrected through less invasive methods, fractures involving the femoral head, or degenerative joint disease that hasn’t responded to other treatments. The decision to move forward with surgery often comes after a detailed physical exam, imaging such as X-rays, and a discussion about your pet’s pain levels, activity, and quality of life.

Many pet parents ask whether removing part of a bone can really restore normal activity. The answer is that while FHO doesn't return the joint to its original anatomical state, pets—especially those under 50 pounds—often regain excellent mobility and comfort. Cats, in particular, tend to do extremely well post-surgery. Larger dogs may also benefit from the procedure, although physical therapy and weight management become more important factors in their recovery.

What makes FHO surgery unique is that it focuses more on eliminating pain than replicating perfect joint movement. After the femoral head is removed, pets are encouraged to begin moving the limb soon after surgery to prevent stiffness and to help the body adapt to its new mechanics. At Dominion Valley Animal Hospital, we emphasize a structured rehabilitation plan that includes controlled exercises, stretching, and sometimes hydrotherapy. These efforts support a strong, pain-free recovery.

It’s also important to understand that FHO is often seen as a cost-effective alternative to total hip replacement, which can be significantly more expensive and require specialized equipment. While total hip replacement may be ideal in some cases, FHO offers a reliable solution that many families choose due to its accessibility and proven outcomes.

Recovery from FHO surgery varies, but most pets show noticeable improvement within a few weeks. Full healing can take several months, depending on factors like age, size, general health, and how closely post-op instructions are followed. Throughout this journey, our veterinary team is here to offer personalized care and guidance, because your pet’s comfort and mobility are always our top priority.

FHO surgery might sound daunting, but with expert care and a dedicated recovery plan, it can be life-changing. Pets who once struggled to walk, jump, or even rest comfortably can return to an active, happy life. At Dominion Valley Animal Hospital, we’ve seen firsthand how this procedure can restore not just function—but joy.

If your pet is struggling with hip pain or mobility issues, our compassionate team at Dominion Valley Animal Hospital is here to help. Visit Dominion Valley Animal Hospital at 5371 Merchants View SquareHaymarket, VA 20169 or call (703) 753-4444 today to schedule a consultation and learn whether FHO surgery could be the right solution for your beloved companion.