
Arthritis in dogs and cats
Arthritis, or Osteoarthritis, is a common condition in both dogs and cats that cause joints to become swollen and painful. Whilst it is an uncurable condition, pain management is an effective way to suppress symptoms. Osteoarthritis can affect dogs and cats of any age, but it is more commonly seen in older pets.
What is Osteoarthritis?
This is unfortunately a common problem for many dogs and cats.
The most common symptoms relating to Osteoarthritis is inflammation of joints, which causes pain, discomfort and stiffness.
Joints move freely and without friction because the surface of the bone is usually covered with a thin layer of smooth cartilage and lubricated with a small amount of fluid. Arthritis occurs when the joint is damaged or its naturally smooth surface changes, resulting in the rough bone rubbing together.
This very painful for your pet and it also further damages the cartilage and causes new bone to form around the joint, making it stiffer and limiting movement.
What causes arthritis in cats and dogs?
General wear and tear over years can cause arthritis in a cat or dogs later years, much like us humans. Age is definitely a common factor, but genetics is another factor here. Certain breeds are also more at risk, including Labradors, Springer Spaniels, German Shepherds and Rottweilers. Injuries often also lead to arthritis later in life.
If the bone or joint doesn’t develop properly then early symptoms of arthritis may occur, and this can happen from as early as a year old. You may be familiar with the conditions called ‘hip and elbow dysplasia’.
Symptoms of arthritis in cats and dogs
You may notice your pet slowing down and taking it easier when out on walks. You may also notice that they are reluctant to play, or going up and down the stairs become a bit of a struggle. As arthritis is a progressive joint disease, you will find that symptoms develop and worsen over time.
Cold weather can make the symptoms worse but it can also make those symptoms more obvious to us. If they appear stiff or slow or yelp out in pain during the winter months, this could be a sign of arthritis.
Other symptoms of arthritis in dogs include:
- Limping or lameness
- A stiff walk that is worse when first waking up
- Fatigue
- Licking or chewing joints
- Wary of joints being touched
- Groaning or caution when lying down or getting up
- Irritability
Early detection is key, so if you think your dog may be showing signs of arthritis, speak to your vet for a health check and for advice.
Diagnosis
History of the symptoms is important but not always conclusive. A physical examination will test for stiffness, pain and/or swelling in the joints. It can often be confirmed with just a physical examination, and at that point a treatment plan can be made.
An x-ray may be advised, especially in younger pets, as this can often establish an underlying cause.
Treatment
Unfortunately, there’s no cure for arthritis, but your pet’s quality of life can be improved by managing the pain and “dampening” the symptoms. Monoclonal anti-body injection, painkillers, anti-inflammatories or even alternative therapies such as hydrotherapy or acupuncture can help. These can help relieve stiffness and improve mobility to support the surrounding muscles.
Surgery (including joint replacement surgeries) can help but it’s unlikely to restore perfect joints for life, and again is more likely to be recommended in severe cases, and in younger pets.
Can I help my pets pain at home?
You can! Although pain management is the most effective way to help your pet, you can make a few changes yourself to help with the pain and to help manage your pets arthritis.
A high quality and balanced diet will help to maintain a healthy weight, and just as in humans, weight can be a factor too! Gentle exercise can reduce pressure on the joints too, so light activities are important. When your vet gives you the diagnosis, they will of course advise you on exercises and will likely advise you to keep an eye on your pet’s weight. Less exercise can lead to weight gain, which we don’t want!
A soft and comfortable bed in a warm, draft-free spot will support their aching joints while they’re asleep. You can purchase orthopaedic beds and they are a great option.
If you notice your pet struggling with things like staircases or getting in and out of the car, a ramp can eliminate the need for them to jump!
Book an appointment today
If you are worried that your dog may have arthritis, please book an appointment with one of our veterinary surgeons either online, or by giving us a call.
**Time limited offer**
Book an appointment before 31st October 2024 and if your pet is diagnosed or suspected to have arthritis, we will administer the first pain management dose completely free! Please note that only the pain management treatment is free, but the appointment is a payable appointment.