There are simple ways you can help to prevent arthritis and reduce the signs of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis can be a real pain for dogs and cats; often the signs are blamed on ‘just getting old’.

Some signs of arthritis are:

  • limping or general stiffness
  • difficulty getting up after resting
  • difficulty jumping into the car
  • less energy, changes in personality such as becoming more withdrawn
  • pain when limbs touched
  • licking of limbs.

Some of the risk factors for arthritis include:

  • age – arthritis is more common in older pets
  • obesity
  • breed – larger breed dogs are more likely to develop arthritis
  • inherited problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia
  • poor or overnutrition problems.

What can we do if your pet has arthritis?

Once we have diagnosed your pet with arthritis there are many things that can be done to improve your pets quality of life.

1. Stopping the pain

Antiinflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are very effective at reducing the symptoms of arthritis. They come in a variety of different forms such as palatable chews, liquid and tablets.

2. Slowing the disease progression

Pentosan injections stop the progression of the disease by targeting the core of the problem. Pentosan helps produce new healthy cartilage and stimulates joint fluid production. It is given as a course of four injections one week apart then one to three monthly boosters. Pentosan is an exceptionally safe product and very cost effective.

3. Maintaining healthy joints

There are three naturally occurring products that assist in treating osteoarthritis. 1) Glucosamine – stimulates cartilage production and is a building block of synovial fluid and cartilage 2) Chondroitin – stops cartilage degradation and promotes nutrient supply to the damaged joint 3) Green Lipped Mussel – contains a unique Omega-3 oil which acts as an anti-inflammatory to joints These products can be added to your dogs food in the form of supplements such as 4Cyte or can be purchased in an entire food such as Hills j/d.

4. Lifestyle changes

  • Weight control is vital in treating arthritis. We can help you with advice on diet.
  • Regular gentle exercise keeps the joints moving and the muscle mass strong.
  • Soft, comfortable and warm bedding is a great help to alleviate those sore joints.