There are two cruciate ligaments in the knee. They attach the thigh bone to the shin bone. They allow the knee to flex and extend and they stabilise the joint. It can just be a simple slip on uneven ground that can cause a cruciate rupture. If this happens the joint becomes unstable and as a result there would be intense pain and inflammation would occur. Your vet will be able to diagnose a cruciate rupture, generally by touch, and advise the best treatment, often this means surgery.A cruciate ligament condition means partial or complete rupture of the cruciate ligament(s). This includes meniscal tears, any looseness of the cruciate ligaments along with any complications following treatment for this condition.Note: A Cruciate Ligament Condition is considered a single Condition irrespective of whether one or both legs are affected.