As our pets age, they face many of the same challenges we do. At Lifting Stars Veterinary Homecare, we know that one of the most common and painful conditions in senior pets is arthritis. Often mistaken as a normal part of aging, arthritis can significantly affect your pet’s quality of life. During National Arthritis Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to recognize the signs of arthritis, understand its impact, and learn how we can help manage it to keep our pets comfortable and active.
Arthritis, or osteoarthritis, is the inflammation of the joints that causes pain and stiffness. While it’s most common in older dogs and cats, it can also affect younger pets with injuries or genetic predispositions. Over time, the wear and tear on your pet’s joints can lead to decreased mobility, making it harder for them to move around, jump, or play. Although arthritis is often linked to aging, it’s not something to simply accept. Without treatment, arthritis can worsen, leading to chronic pain and discomfort.
Signs of arthritis in pets can be subtle, making it harder to detect in the early stages. Pets with arthritis may be less playful, reluctant to go for walks, or avoid activities they once enjoyed, like climbing stairs or jumping onto furniture. Stiffness, especially after resting, and a noticeable limp or sensitivity when touched are also common signs. Pets may also seem more irritable or withdrawn due to the pain they are experiencing.
What’s tricky is that pets don’t always show visible signs of pain. Instinctively, they hide discomfort, which can make it difficult for us to notice when they are struggling. For many pet owners, all they may notice is that their pet is just “slowing down”. That’s why it’s so important to be proactive. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, or if your pet is showing signs of discomfort, it’s essential to contact your veterinarian for advice and diagnosis.
At Lifting Stars, we understand the importance of keeping your pet comfortable and mobile as they age. While arthritis may not be curable, it is highly manageable. There are several treatment options available to help alleviate pain and improve your pet’s quality of life. Your veterinarian can recommend a combination of treatments, including joint supplements, pain relief medications, injectable medications and lifestyle adjustments.
Many effective supplements and medications are available to help manage arthritis. Joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health and help repair cartilage, slowing the progression of arthritis. Pain relief medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), gabapentin and amantadine can help manage inflammation and ease discomfort. If your pet is having trouble staying active, your vet may also recommend physical therapy or massage to improve mobility and reduce stiffness. Maintaining a healthy weight is another important factor in managing arthritis, as it reduces the strain on your pet’s joints.
At home, creating a supportive environment is key to reducing the impact of arthritis. Soft bedding, ramps to help your pet access furniture, providing runner carpets or rugs for traction and keeping the living space free from obstacles can all help minimize joint strain. Gentle, low-impact exercise, like short walks or swimming, can also help improve mobility while easing stiffness.
Arthritis is a progressive condition that requires ongoing care. As your pet ages, their arthritis may worsen, so it’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to adjust their treatment plan as necessary. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor their condition and ensure their pain is well-managed.
To help you assess whether your pet is experiencing pain, Lifting Stars Veterinary Homecare offers helpful pain scales, such as the BEAP Pain Scale for dogs and cats, and the Feline Grimace Scale. Please see the Resources page of our website “Pet Pain Scales” at www.liftingstars.ca, for copies of these scales. They provide a way to evaluate your pet’s behaviour and physical signs, helping you make informed decisions about their care. If you notice any changes in your pet’s behaviour or mobility, use these scales and consult with your veterinarian for advice.
