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ARTHRITIS IN PETS
Arthritis is a chronic degenerative condition that affects the joints, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. Whether you have a senior dog or a playful pup, understanding and managing arthritis is essential for providing the best quality of life for your pet.
Arthritis is characterised by joint inflammation, and while it can potentially affect any joint in the body, it most commonly impacts those found in the limbs and spine. In a healthy joint, the presence of smooth cartilage on both sides, which is adequately lubricated by thick joint fluid, ensures proper function.
Conversely, in a joint affected by arthritis, the cartilage surface becomes rough, leading to a noticeable "grinding" sensation as it interacts with the opposing surface. This ongoing degeneration process continues until the cartilage is substantially worn down, ultimately resulting in pain and lameness.
Causes of arthritis include degeneration due to aging (wear and tear), inherited conditions (such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia), infection, injury or trauma, ligament and tendon damage, blood disease, allergic or auto-immune (rheumatoid) diseases and cancer.
Is Arthritis common in younger or older pets?
Arthritis can affect both younger and older pets, but it is more commonly associated with older animals. Here's a breakdown for each:
Dog Arthritis
Older Dogs: Arthritis is more common in older dogs, typically those over the age of seven. The risk of developing arthritis in dogs generally increases with age, especially in large breeds and those with a genetic predisposition.
Younger Dogs: While less common, younger dogs can develop arthritis as well, particularly if they have experienced joint injuries or have a genetic predisposition to joint issues. Certain dog breeds are also more prone to early-onset arthritis.
Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis in Pets
Arthritis can manifest in various ways, and the signs may not always be obvious. Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
Lameness or Limping: Your pet may show signs of lameness or limp, especially after physical activity.
Stiffness: Pets with arthritis may experience stiffness, especially when they first wake up or after resting.
Reluctance to Jump or Climb: Arthritis can make it challenging for pets to jump onto furniture or climb stairs.
Decreased Activity: Pets with arthritis may become less active and show a decline in interest in play and exercise.
Change in Behaviour: Arthritic pets may display changes in behaviour, such as increased irritability or sensitivity when touched.
Can You See Visible Signs of Arthritic Swelling?
While visible swelling may not always be evident, we often observe degenerative muscle wastage due to the affected leg's reduced use. This can lead to signs of limping and overall muscle mass loss, particularly over the spine and affected areas. Osteoarthritis commonly affects areas such as the hips, knee joints, shoulders, and elbows, and the condition tends to worsen over time, degrading the cartilage between the joints and the carpal joint in the front leg. It is not uncommon for animals to experience pain along the spinal column as a result of the body compensating for areas of weakness.
Diagnosing Arthritis in Pets
Identifying arthritis in your pet can be challenging, as the condition often develops gradually, and animals don't typically express their joint discomfort. Annual health check-ups are crucial in aiding your veterinarian to detect early signs of arthritis. In some cases, an owner's observation of their pet may serve as the initial indication of osteoarthritis.
However, in instances of subtle symptoms or stoic pets, a joint examination during your veterinary consultation can provide valuable diagnostic insights. Your veterinarian may also ask you to complete a mobility questionnaire at home to better understand your pet's level of discomfort. In addition, diagnostic imaging techniques like radiographs (X-rays), CT scans, or arthroscopy may be recommended to assess the affected joint(s).
The majority of osteoarthritis cases can be managed based on owner reports, your vet's physical examination, and your pet's response to treatment.
Arthritis Management and Treatment
Managing arthritis in dogs involves a multimodal approach to ensure they continue to lead a good quality life:
Pain Management: We use safe and effective medications to manage your pet's pain and discomfort.
Weight Management: Maintaining a lean, healthy body condition is crucial to avoid extra stress on the joints. More information available here
Physical Therapy: Regular, low-impact exercise helps maintain muscles that support the joints. Swimming is an excellent non-weight-bearing exercise that encourages muscle development without putting strain on painful joints.
Therapeutic Diets: Specific diets like Hills J/d or Metabolic + Mobility are designed to alleviate arthritis symptoms with their combination of essential fatty acids, reducing pain and inflammation, and supporting cartilage health.
Lifestyle Adjustments: We will guide you in making necessary lifestyle adjustments to accommodate your pet's condition and enhance their comfort.
Medication and Supplements
We offer a range of medications and supplements to aid in arthritis treatment. Some of the notable ones include:
Beransa for Dogs
Beransa is a newly available monthly injectable medication that helps to reduce joint inflammation, nerve sensitivity and pain. Beransa is a monoclonal antibody targeted specifically towards proteins found within the joints meaning it is a very safe medication with very few side effects.
Cartrophen
Cartrophen treats joint-related conditions, particularly osteoarthritis and degenerative joint diseases in dogs and cats. The injections consist of pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS), which aids in diminishing inflammation, supporting cartilage repair, and enhancing joint function. This treatment offers advantages like relieving joint pain, boosting mobility, and enhancing the overall well-being of pets affected by joint problems, proving especially beneficial for younger dogs with hip or elbow dysplasia or after surgery to prevent early-onset arthritis.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatories (NSAIDs)
These medications relieve pain and inflammation in the joints. A blood test is recommended before starting NSAIDs, as long-term use can affect liver and kidney function.
Gabapentin (Neurontin)
Another pain relief medication that acts differently from NSAIDs and is safer for long-term use in terms of liver and kidney function.
Prescription Diets
Prescription diets like Hills, JD, and Royal Canin Mobility are specifically formulated and fortified with omega fatty acids, fish oils, glucosamine, and supplements that protect the joints. While there are numerous homoeopathic and home remedies available, the conclusive evidence for their effectiveness, such as turmeric, remains limited.
4CYTE
4CYTE is a joint supplement formulated for dogs to support joint health and mobility. It contains a combination of natural ingredients, including Epiitalis, a patented plant extract, which is believed to promote cartilage repair and reduce joint inflammation. The benefits of 4CYTE include improved joint function, reduced joint pain, and enhanced overall joint health, making it a valuable addition to the management of joint-related conditions in pets.
Nutraceuticals
Supplements like fish oil, chondroitin, and glucosamine may reduce inflammation and protect the joints. They can be given long-term to aid in management.
Arthritis in pets is a chronic, progressive condition, and while there is no cure, the combination of treatment options mentioned above helps manage the disease and improve your pet's comfort and quality of life.
At Evervet, we take a complete approach to treating arthritis in dogs, ensuring the best possible care for our furry patients. If you suspect your dog may be experiencing arthritis symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Our compassionate team is here to support you and your furry companion through every step of their journey.
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