Managing Your Pet’s Arthritis
Arthritis is a common condition for many older pets (and humans). If your pet has arthritis there are thing you can do to make your pet more comfortable in his later years.
How can I tell if my pet has arthritis?
When your pet has arthritis, you will usually notice a change in behavior. He might move more slowly, or not jump up to his favorite spots as much. He might get upset when you touch him, stop eating or seem grumpy. Your pet can’t tell you about his pain, so you will have to watch closely.
If your pet seems stiff and in pain when he moves, take him to your vet. It is important that your pet be diagnosed with the right kind of arthritis so he can get the proper treatment. Your vet can also rule out other disease like hypokalemia, cognitive dysfunction or cancer, which can have similar symptoms.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, both in animals and humans. Most elderly animals have it in varying degrees. Arthritis happens when the cartilage that cushions your joints wears away and the joint bones rub together. This can happen at any joint, but is most common in:
- Ankles
- Knees
- Elbows
- Hips
- Shoulders
Treating pets with arthritis
First of all, NEVER give your pet human medication to treat arthritis or any other ailment. It is all too easy to kill your pet or give him and overdose. If you give your pet medication.
Surgery is sometimes used as a treatment for arthritis, particularly in younger animals. You and your vet can determine if surgery is right for you. Acupuncture and massage are also becoming more common for treating arthritis in pets. If you massage your pet, make sure your vet shows you how to do it correctly so you don’t hurt your pet. Otherwise, take him to a trained professional.
Diet and supplements for pet arthritis
It is important to make sure your pet is not overweight. Carrying around more weight puts more strain on the joints. If your pet is a little “chunky,” put him on a light diet. You should be able to easily find his ribs. If your pet is a healthy weight, there are many options for joint-diet food. It is also good to find food that is good for his teeth too.
There are many supplements available for pets to increase joint health. Look for ingredients like:
- Vitamins and minerals
- Creatine
- Glucosamine
- Chondroitin
- Perna caniculus
Make your pet’s life a little easier
There are many things you can do to make your pet’s life easier and more comfortable. Making a few changes allows your pet to feel more confident and move around more easily:
- Watch out for high steps, slick floors or drafts
- Keep food dishes and litter boxes at a comfortable height
- Make floors less slippery with carpet or non-skid mats
- Make a ramp so your pet won’t have to jump
Sources:
http://www.healthypet.com/library_view.aspx?ID=33&sid=1
http://www.placervillevet.com/arthritis.htm#dog%20arthritis%20pain%20and%20inflammation