One of the most common concerns that pet owners of older dogs and cats raise is the  development of osteoarthritis (OA) or degenerative joint disease (DJD). OA is a disease that involves damage to the cartilage within the joints, which disrupts the normal production of joint fluid, leading to inflammation, decreased mobility, and pain. It is a normal part of aging. But there’s lots we can do to alleviate the discomfort associated with it.

Typical signs of arthritis in our pets can include lameness, difficulty getting up and down, slow gait, soreness, reluctance to go up and down stairs or climb on furniture, pain on touching certain areas, and joint swelling.

But sometimes the signs can be more subtle and can include less interest in walks or exercise, decreased appetite, lethargy, restlessness and anxiety, panting, urinating or defecating outside of the litterbox (cats).

The diagnosis of arthritis is usually made through a combination of a detailed history and description of signs provided by the owner or caretaker, a thorough physical examination by a veterinarian (including watching your pet walk or exercise), laboratory tests ( to rule out any other medical conditions that can look similar to arthritis, and also to let us know that it will be safe to use certain medications for treatment), and radiographs (x-rays) of the affected or painful joints.

There are numerous treatments available for arthritis management. A treatment plan will often include a combination of different things . It is important to remember that once the process of arthritis starts, it is not reversible. But it is a very manageable condition.

• NUTRITION AND SUPPLEMENTS
  • Weight management is very important in the treatment of arthritis. Extra weight puts extra stress on joints, which can make the discomfort worse. Maintaining an ideal weight will go a long way towards maintaining comfort. Calorie counts are an easy place to start for weight loss!
  • Omega 3 Fatty Acids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Pet-specific products are available from companies such as welactin.com and nordic.com .
  • The use of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM and similar products has been controversial. Some studies show improvement, while others show them to be ineffective. In most cases, they are likely not hurting, but it is unclear if they help.
  • Un-denatured collagen (UC-II) has been receiving more attention lately. It works by a different mechanism than other supplements, by re-training the body’s immune system to not cause an inflammatory response to the breakdown products of cartilage, thereby decreasing the pain associated with inflammation. Jope.com is a veterinary company with a pet-specific UC-II product.
• MEDICATIONS
  • While there are many medications available for arthritis management, there is no perfect medication. We often use a combination of medications (called a multi-modal approach) to achieve the desired effect, while minimizing unwanted side effects.
  • NSAIDS are anti-inflammatories. They can be used daily or as-needed to reduce pain. Do not use human nsaids, as these can be toxic to dogs and cats.
  • ORAL ANALGESICS, or pain medications, can include gabapentin and amantadine, and other stronger medications.
  • INJECTABLE medications can include Polysulfonated Glycosaminoglycans (Adequan), which helps joint cells rejuvenate lubricating joint fluid; and Anti-Nerve Growth Factor monoclonal antibodies (Librela for dogs, Solensia for cats), which help block the sensation of pain.
• ADJUNCTIVE THERAPIES
  • These modalities can work with medications and supplements to help increase mobility, and include physical therapy exercises, acupuncture, laser therapy, underwater treadmill, and joint manipulation.
• ENVIRONMENT
  • Modifying the environment can go a long way to helping arthritic pets get around better, and can also help reduce the frustration associated with immobility. Ramps allow easier access to the car and furniture. Orthopedic beds make sleeping more comfortable. Carpet runners help with better footing. Paw grips (like booties, Musher’s, or similar products) also help with better footing. Lowering the height of the entrance to litterboxes make is easier for cats to get in and out for elimination. Creativity is key here!

Development of arthritis is a natural progression of aging. But with early recognition and management, there are lots of options available for keeping our dogs and cats mobile, content, and pain-free. Feel free to bring it up at your next visit with us! We’re happy to help!