Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis is a common health condition in middle aged to senior dogs and cats that can cause much pain, discomfort and stiffness in your pet.
With arthritis, the cartilage within the joint that normally protects and cushions bones deteriorates and the joint fluid looses its lubricating properties. As a result the bone surfaces rub together and movement becomes less smooth, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility.
Arthritis generally occurs as a result of ageing, obesity, injury, infection or genetic makeup.
Common signs of arthritis
There are a number of signs that can indicate your dog or cat is suffering from arthritis.
Reduced activity
Reluctance to walk, jump, climb or play
Difficulty getting up or lying down
Limping/lameness
Licking, chewing or biting at joints
Yelping when touched
Irritability
Managing arthritis in pets
Although arthritis cannot be cured, there are various remedies and treatments that can help ease the pain for your pet.
Find a local vet – the first step is to book an appointment with your local vet. Our vets will conduct a thorough physical examination that often includes x-rays and other diagnostic tests to help determine the cause of pain and inflammation in your pet’s joints. They can then offer a tailored plan on how to ease the pain and manage your pet’s arthritis.
Weight management – for pets with arthritis, carrying extra weight on damaged joints is not only painful but it can also speed up the cartilage deterioration. In healthy pets, being overweight can predispose them to early development of osteoarthritis and other health conditions. If your pet is overweight your local vet is your best resource to create a diet and exercise program to start improving your pets overall health.
Regular exercise – talk to your vet about an exercise program for your pet. Short gentle play or walks may be helpful in some cases. Your vet may also advise swimming as a therapy for dogs with arthritis. Vigorous play and activity such as jumping, leaping and turning should be avoided.
A complete and balanced diet - is essential for your pet’s health and wellbeing. Speak to one of our vets, as your pet may benefit from a special diet that contains ingredients designed to target joint and mobility issues, helping with inflammation and stiffness over time.
Home comforts – there are a number of steps that can be introduced at home to help make your pet more comfortable. Ensure your pet has a soft bed in a warm place, away from drafts. Use a ramp for going upstairs or getting into the car so your pet doesn’t have to jump. Place food and water bowls up a bit higher so they don’t need to bend their neck. For cats make sure their litter tray is easy to access.
Gentle massage and grooming – pay special attention to grooming areas of your pet’s body that are hard for them to reach. When they are relaxed and at ease, give them a gentle pat and massage.
Anti-inflammatory medications or joint health supplements – can help to improve your pet’s overall comfort and joint health. Talk to our vets about how your pet might benefit from different arthritic treatment options.
Although arthritis cannot be cured, there are various remedies and treatments that can help ease the pain for your pet. Call us on 03 8784 4444 to speak to one of our vets for advice on how to manage your pet’s arthritis.