Caring for Cats and Dogs with Arthritis

As our pets grow older, they also suffer from the same aches and pains we do. Arthritis in cats and dogs is one of the most common causes of pain in our elderly pets. This pain is due to a reduction in cartilage around their joints. This leads to joint inflammation as the bones begin to rub directly upon each other.  Identifying that your pet has arthritis can be tricky as many animals do not respond to or show they are in pain like we do. That’s where a regular check up with their vet is vital.
Benefits of Early Detection of Arthritis
If identified early, it is possible to slow down the progress of arthritis in your cat or dog. Here are some of the signs your pet may be suffering from arthritis:

• Limping or walking funny
• Having difficulty jumping
• Slow to stand up from when lying down
• Spends more time sleeping
• Reluctant to climb stairs or jump into the car
• Does less self-grooming
• Does not play as much as they used to
• Muscle loss

It can be hard to tell if they do have arthritis or not, as many of these signs can also be contributed to old age or other causes. An x-ray is the only way we can definitively diagnose arthritis, but damage is not often seen until many years after this painful disease has been present. A clinical examination can tell us if arthritis is the most likely culprit for their symptoms and we usually base our treatment on this, rather than a confirmed diagnosis.
While there is no cure for arthritis, we can help slow down the progress of it. That’s why early identification is so important. The longer your pet has untreated symptoms, the more irreversible damage is being done to their joints and the longer they are in unnecessary pain. You can help your pet to manage their arthritis by:

• Ensuring they remain a healthy weight
• Providing a warm, soft bed in an area free from draughts
• Gentle regular exercise. Cats will enjoy inside movements and play, while dogs can benefit from walking on flat areas or swimming.

We can help prevent further arthritic damage in your cat or dog by:

• Helping you manage your pet’s weight
• Providing prescription foods
• Prescribing medications to reduce the inflammation and pain
• Offering dietary supplements

A regular vet check-up is your pet’s best defence against arthritis. Book your appointment today!