Arthritic Joints in Older Pets

Have you noticed your pet not being as enthusiastic about jumping and leaping? Perhaps your dog doesn't get as excited about that game of fetch or catch as he once did or perhaps your cat can't quite jump onto that warm windowsill that has always been her favorite. These are all signs of arthritic joints in older pets and chances are if these (or other) signs are present your pet has a common condition known as degenerative joint disease; often referred to as osteoarthritis.  

Arthritic joints in pets may begin during the first half of life, with the symptoms not becoming apparent until much later with the primary symptoms being stiffness and lameness. It is not unusual for older pets with degenerative joint disease to be very stiff early in the morning, only to improve as the day wears on. Also, when the weather becomes cold and/or damp the condition tends to worsen making such simple tasks as making it to the litter box on time or racing to meet you when you get home from work a challenge. Next let's explore the condition itself and try to find a few helpful solutions.  

Degenerative joint disease is the most common form of arthritis in pets. It is often noticed in dogs, cats, and other pets around the age of 11 or so. As you may know 12 cat years is equivalent to 59 human years. Generally speaking when a pet is experiencing arthritic or painfully sore joints it is often a sign that the cartilage that has so effectively protected the connecting joint bones from rubbing together for years is starting to wear thin. As the cartilage degeneration continues the underlying bone develops a roughened surface that damages the joint. Pets whose joints have been subjected to overuse, severe stress, dislocation, or fracture are the ones most likely to develop arthritic joints at an early or premature age. Degenerative joint disease may be suspected but your veterinarian will probably need to take an X-ray to confirm the existence and severity of the disease.   Once the condition has been recognized it is important that swift action be taken to prevent lameness and continued loss of joint mobility.

There are no magic solutions that will make severely arthritic joints in old pets disappear. That said, there are a few steps that you can take to reduce the damage and make your pets life more enjoyable.  
* Provide a warm place for your pet to sleep and rest
* If your pet is overweight a diet plan should be formulated
* Moderate exercise may prove helpful in maintaining joint flexibility
* Consider hydrotherapy if possible
* Consider ways to make your pets life easier (stair steps, litter box placement)
* Check with your veterinarian for new medications to treat pain and inflammation  

Additionally, many pet owners are opting form natural pet arthritis formulas to rebuild lost cartilage and support joint health. These supplements have proven to be very effective in most cases and are an option worth considering.