Last Updated on 4 mins by Dr. Shannon Barrett
Seeing your furry friend struggle with the discomfort of arthritis can be devastating. Approximately 20% of dogs over seven and 90% of cats over twelve undergo this difficulty.
Key Takeaways
- Arthritis affects around 20% of dogs older than seven and up to 90% of cats over twelve, causing joint pain, swelling, and loss of mobility.
- Keeping pets at a healthy weight through exercise and diet can prevent arthritis. Regular vet check-ups help catch it early.
- Treatment options for arthritis include medications for pain relief, lifestyle changes like low-impact exercises, supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids for joint health, and in severe cases, surgical interventions.
- Special care setups at home like non-slip rugs and orthopedic beds can improve an arthritic pet’s life quality significantly.
- Exploring alternative therapies such as acupuncture or hydrotherapy could provide additional comfort to pets with arthritis.
What is Arthritis in Dogs and Cats?
Arthritis is an inflammation of one or more joints. The most common type in dogs and cats is osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease (DJD).
This condition leads to the wearing away of cartilage and thinning of joint fluid. As a result, pets experience discomfort, swelling, and reduced mobility.
Osteoarthritis can severely impact your pet’s quality of life.
Degenerative joint disease gradually worsens over time. It causes bones to rub against each other, leading to painful bone spurs or chips.
The knees, hips, elbows, and spine can be affected in pets with this condition.
Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis in Pets
Seeing our pets slow down can worry us. Arthritis might be the culprit, especially in older dogs and cats.
Signs like lameness or limping are easy to spot. Your pet may also show less desire to play or find it hard to jump up onto surfaces they once loved.
Morning stiffness could make getting up a challenge, and you might notice them struggling with stairs. These physical signs often come along with changes in behavior; perhaps your normally friendly pet starts seeking solitude or acts more irritable when approached.
Cats get arthritis, too, but their symptoms can be harder to catch. They may avoid the litter box because it’s painful to climb into, sleep more than usual, or stop grooming themselves properly due to stiffness and pain.
Changes in how a cat jumps, such as hesitating or outright avoiding leaps they used to make easily, are another red flag for arthritis. It’s vital we watch closely for these subtle clues since animals are experts at hiding discomfort until it becomes severe.
Observing decreased activity levels, mobility issues, and any sudden changes in posture will help us intervene early and provide relief for our furry friends.
Risk Factors for Arthritis in Pets
Several factors can raise the risk of arthritis in dogs and cats. Age, weight, and genetics play huge roles.
Older pets, like people, are more prone to joint problems. Heavier pets have extra stress on their joints, making them more likely to develop arthritis.
Also, some breeds are just more likely to get it than others. For example, large dogs such as German Shepherds and Labradors and cats like Maine Coons face a higher risk due to their size and genetic predispositions.
Injuries or trauma can increase the chances of getting arthritis. This includes serious issues like hip dysplasia or a torn cranial cruciate ligament, common injuries in active dogs that put them at a greater risk for developing joint disease later on.
Lyme Disease from ticks can also contribute; it leads to joint inflammation.
Lastly, lifestyle factors such as how often a pet exercises or what they eat could influence their likelihood of facing arthritis down the road.
Diagnosing Arthritis in Dogs and Cats
Diagnosing arthritis in dogs and cats involves a comprehensive approach. A physical examination, which includes assessing joint swelling, pain, and muscle mass, is the first step. To confirm the diagnosis, X-rays are used to check for bone changes.
Advanced degenerative joint disease. The femoral neck is thickened, the femoral head is misshapen, and there are numerous osteophytes (black arrows). There are multiple small and large radiolucencies (white arrows) in the femoral neck because of invasion of bone by hyperplastic synovium.
In cases where detailed bone structure and tissue examination are required, advanced imaging techniques like CT scans or MRIs may be used. Additionally, joint tap analysis might be performed to check for infection or autoimmune conditions.
Treatment Options for Pets with Arthritis
Pets with arthritis have several treatment options:
- Medications can provide pain relief.
- Weight management helps reduce pressure on joints.
- Lifestyle changes include modifying exercise routines.
- Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids aid joint health.
Medications
When managing arthritis in pets, pain management is crucial. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and alternative medications can provide relief. However, it’s important to consult veterinarians before administering any medication to ensure the safety and well-being of our companions.
Injectable medications, supplements,, and physical therapy are also valid options for easing their discomfort.
There are newer medications on the market, such as Solensia for cats and Librela for dogs.
Pets with arthritis can benefit from a holistic approach to treatment that incorporates a combination of medications, supplements, and therapeutic interventions tailored toward enhancing their quality of life. Adequan is one of my favorites for dogs suffering from arthritis.
Weight Management
Obesity is a leading risk factor for arthritis in dogs and cats. Weight management can be a preventive measure and an integral part of therapeutic strategies for osteoarthritis (OA).
Research shows that calorie restriction not only leads to longer life but also reduces chronic diseases in dogs. Nearly 30% of obese individuals are at risk of developing OA. Lifestyle changes, exercise routines, and appropriate dietary adjustments are vital in managing pet obesity and mitigating its adverse effects on joint health.
If you decrease your pet’s calories by 25%, they can live 15% longer. This means more time with your best friend.
Lifestyle Changes
To help your pet manage arthritis effectively, consider the following lifestyle changes:
- Regular, low-impact exercises such as walking and swimming can improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness.
- Create a pet-friendly environment by using non-slip rugs to prevent falls and ensure consistent indoor temperatures.
- Elevate food and water dishes to reduce strain on the neck and back.
- Provide orthopedic bedding for added comfort and support.
- Encourage walking on soft surfaces, such as grass or carpet, to minimize impact on joints.
- Install ramps to help pets access higher areas without having to jump.
- Use interactive toys to keep pets mentally stimulated while physically active.
These lifestyle changes can significantly enhance your pet’s quality of life while managing arthritis effectively.
Supplements
After making suitable lifestyle changes, we should also consider integrating supplements into their routine. These additions can play a pivotal role in managing arthritis symptoms for pets.
Key supplements like chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine sulfate, and omega-3 fatty acids have been found to support joint health and alleviate discomfort caused by this condition.
Surgical Interventions
When it comes to advanced cases of arthritis in our pets, surgical interventions can be necessary. These options may include arthroscopy for severe osteoarthritis in dogs.
In some instances, surgeries to repair ligaments or bones might also be recommended. Such interventions are crucial in improving the quality of life and mobility for our beloved companions.
Besides the surgical treatments mentioned, other effective forms of intervention include stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections.
Our firsthand experience with these procedures has shown promising results in alleviating pain and promoting healing in pets suffering from arthritis, offering a ray of hope for combating this degenerative joint disorder.
Rehabilitation and Alternative Therapies
We can help our pets with arthritis by considering rehabilitation and alternative therapies.
- Therapeutic Exercises: Certified veterinarians provide rehabilitation through customized therapeutic exercises, aiding in improving mobility and reducing pain for our furry companions.
- Acupuncture: This ancient practice stimulates healing and helps manage pain in pets suffering from arthritis, offering a non-drug management strategy worth considering.
- Non-Pharmaceutical Management: Strategies like weight management and physical therapy play a crucial role in alleviating the discomfort caused by arthritis, contributing to an improved quality of life for our pets.
Prevention of Arthritis in Pets
To help prevent arthritis in your pets, keep them lean through regular exercise and appropriate diet. Here are some important strategies to consider:
- Maintain a healthy body weight for your pet.
- Monitor growth abnormalities, especially in puppies.
- Ensure regular veterinary check-ups.
- Implement slow growth, good nutrition, optimal body condition, and regular exercise for your pets.
Living with Arthritis: Final Thoughts
Living with arthritis in pets calls for accessing the appropriate resources for effective care. Pet owners can make use of weight management, physical therapy, and alternative treatments like acupuncture and laser therapy to help enhance their pet’s quality of life.
Although there is no cure for arthritis, there is a lot you can do to make your pet more comfortable and happy!
FAQs
What are some causes of arthritis in dogs and cats?
Arthritis in dogs and cats can be caused by several factors, such as elbow dysplasia, kneecap dislocation (luxating patella), osteochondrosis or a cruciate ligament rupture.
Are over-the-counter human pain medications safe for pets?
No! Human pain medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen should not be given to pets without veterinary guidance. Some OTC human medications can be toxic to dogs. Always consult with your vet before giving any medication to your pet.
Is CBD oil effective for treating arthritis in pets?
There’s ongoing research into CBD oil’s effectiveness on chronic pain related to osteoarthritic conditions. Remember that it isn’t FDA-approved yet for animal health use. Best practice? Consult your vet first!
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a licensed veterinarian. Read More
Dr. Shannon Barrett brings an exceptional blend of academic excellence and professional expertise to the world of veterinary medicine. With a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Western University of Health Sciences, where she graduated with honors, and dual Bachelor degrees in Biological Sciences and Psychology, her depth of knowledge is extensive. A member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Barrett's insights and contributions to pet health have been featured in leading publications such as Rover, MarketWatch, and Newsweek.
