Arthritis in pets is a common condition that affects their joints, causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness. It can occur in dogs, cats, and other animals, especially as they age. Here are some key points about arthritis in pets:

1. Causes: Arthritis in pets can be caused by various factors, including aging, joint instability, genetic predisposition, injury, or autoimmune diseases.
2. Symptoms: Signs of arthritis in pets may include limping, difficulty moving, stiffness, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, changes in behavior, irritability, and a decrease in activity level.
3. Diagnosis: Veterinarians typically diagnose arthritis through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and sometimes imaging studies like X-rays. Blood tests may also be conducted to rule out other potential causes for pain and discomfort.
4. Treatment: While arthritis in pets is generally not curable, there are several treatment options available to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life. These may include medication (such as pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs), weight management, chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, and joint supplements.

Anti inflammatory medications and supplements give the body the building blocks necessary to create and maintain healthy joints and lubrication of the joint tissues in addition to blocking pain receptors, thus reducing your pets pain level. Keeping your pet lean also reduces stress on joints due to less gravitational force. Increased muscle mass to fat also improves joint stability and reduces risk of injuries during normal play activities. Chiropractic adjustments improve how the nervous system communicates within the body and ensures adequate joint movement for a balanced gait whilst traveling.

Providing a comfortable and warm environment, ensuring pets have soft bedding, and modifying their living space to minimize jumping or climbing can help alleviate stress on their joints and prevent injuries. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are important for monitoring the progression of arthritis and adjusting the treatment plan accordingly.

It’s important to note that any suspected health issues in pets should be addressed with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you have specific questions or concerns about arthritis in your pet, consulting with a veterinarian would be the best course of action. If you have a general question about arthritis in pets, just contact us.