Pet Care Tips
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is joint inflammation that is caused by long term deterioration and/or degeneration of the joint cartilage. Arthritis can affect animals of any age. The causes of arthritis are varied and include, but are not limited to: Abnormal joint development (i.e. dysplasia), trauma (i.e. hit by car), or chronic injury from exercise. If your pet shows any of the following signs he/she may have arthritis.
Dogs:
- Difficulty or stiffness when rising or after lying in one spot for extended periods
- Limping/lameness on and off that becomes worse with exercise, cold/damp weather, or progressively worsens over time.
- Difficulty with, or unwilling to descend/ascend steps
- Joint swelling, pain, instability, or obvious deformity
- Decreased activity level may show unwillingness to perform certain activities
Cats:
- Difficulty grooming, jumping onto furniture, or getting to their litter box
- Increased irritability
Risk Factors:
- Breed: Many conditions, such as hip dysplasia and luxating knee caps, are common in certain breeds
- Size and weight: Excess pounds place more stress on their joints.
- Heredity
- Activity Level: Athletic and working dogs place more stress on their joints.
- Medical conditions: Cushing's disease, hypothyroidism, and diabetes mellitus can affect collagen cartilage.
Treatment:
The treatment of arthritis includes: diet, exercise, medical, and in some cases surgical treatment. To determine the appropriate plan of action for treatment a thorough exam will be needed. X-rays and/or blood work may be recommended prior to starting medications. Arthritis is a progressive, life-long condition. Therefore, your pet's treatment plan may be altered, or combined with other treatments as the arthritis worsens. Please call if you have any questions about osteoarthritis, or to make an appointment if you feel your pet may have arthritis.
