What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a general term that refers to joint inflammation and degeneration. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time. Cartilage damage exposes the underlying bone, causing pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the joints. Arthritis is one of the leading medical conditions affecting dogs and cats as they get older.
Causes of Companion Animal Arthritis
Genetics play an important role in arthritis development for many companion animals. Breeds with large, heavy bodies or those performing repetitive high-impact activities have a higher risk. Obesity is another significant risk factor that accelerates joint degeneration. Previous injuries, especially fractures or surgeries, can also predispose joints to arthritis later in life. Just like in humans, aging is the primary cause since it gradually breaks down cartilage over many years.
Symptoms to Watch For
The telltale signs of Companion Animal Arthritis include limping, reluctance to run or jump, stiffness, and pain or crying out when joints are moved or touched. Pets may have trouble rising, climbing stairs, or settling down. Sometimes symptoms only appear after periods of inactivity like sleeping. As cartilage wears away, joints may appear enlarged or deformed on x-ray images. Blood tests don't diagnose arthritis but can help rule out other conditions.
Conservative Treatment Options
Weight management through diet and exercise is extremely important for arthritic pets. Losing even a small percentage of weight can relieve undue stress on joints. Physical therapy in the form of controlled passive stretches and range-of-motion exercises can help with flexibility and mobility. Keeping pets at a healthy weight also allow anti-inflammatory medications like pain relievers (NSAIDs) to work more effectively.
Nutraceutical Supplements
Many joint health supplements contain ingredients that have research-backed anti-inflammatory and cartilage protective properties. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are two of the best-studied compounds for pets. Green lipped mussel and avocado/soybean extracts are other popular choices. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish or krill oil aid in reducing joint inflammation. While supplements alone won't cure arthritis, they provide supportive therapy when used consistently long-term.
Hydrotherapy
Underwater treadmill therapy offers low-impact exercise to build muscle strength without high joint stress. Water properties help reduce swelling and pain while improving range of motion. Pets often enjoy the playful environment which motivates movement and promotes healing. Many rehab facilities and specialty veterinary hospitals now offer hydrotherapy as part of an arthritis treatment program.
Alternative Pain Management
For pets with moderate to severe chronic pain that doesn't respond fully to medication or supplements alone, newer options exist. Acupuncture and laser therapy are two minimally invasive techniques that have scientifically validated results for arthritic joints. Stem cell therapy is a regenerative approach still being researched but showing promise for repairing damaged cartilage. Cold laser, electromagnetic field therapy, and pulsed signal therapy are additional emerging modalities.
Surgical Intervention
When conservative measures no longer control pain, joint replacement or limb amputation may be recommended to improve quality of life. Orthopedic surgeons now offer highly sophisticated prosthetic implants that allow pets to regain mobility and activity levels. Other surgeries like arthroscopy aim to repair damaged areas, remove loose fragments, or treat infections contributing to joint inflammation. These are generally considered only after multimodal medical management has been exhausted.
Living with Canine or Feline Arthritis
With today's treatment innovations, many companion animal arthritis can experience years of good quality living. Ensuring a comfortable environment, providing periodic joint massages or warm compress therapy, and giving medications as prescribed can keep symptoms managed. Staying at a healthy weight, keeping joints moving through low-impact exercise, and giving supplements regularly helps control inflammation long-term. Monitoring for any sudden changes and visiting veterinarians annually will catch problems quickly to maximize mobility and minimize discomfort. With careful management approaches tailored to each individual pet, arthritis need not spell the end of an active life full of love and fun.
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