The cranial cruciate ligament is a band of fibrous tissue which connects the back of the femur (thigh bone) to the front of the tibia (one of the shin bones). The CCL keeps the tibia in place beneath the femur and is responsible for stabilising the knee joint.

Like in humans, the ligament can be ruptured or torn causing lameness. An operation is required to repair / replace the CCL and stabilise the knee. Following the operation a period of cage rest is followed by a individualised rehabilitation plan.