Arthritis is a common but burdensome condition that can strike both dogs and cats. If you witness a change in your pet’s mobility, speak with their veterinarian about the possibility of arthritis.
According to the American Kennel Club, arthritis is an issue with your pet’s joints. It can be caused by an injury, age, or developmental disorder.
Early detection can help you to be proactive and prevent your pet from suffering from degeneration and discomfort. Symptoms to watch for include decreased mobility, stiffness, sudden changes in personality, and even lameness.
Veterinarians may take tissue samples or x-rays to help them properly identify arthritis.
It can be a worrysome ordeal to discover your pet has been suffering from arthritis. However, don’t fret! As a pet owner, there are a number of ways you can be proactive in preventing and soothing pet arthritis.
Dog Arthritis Symptoms
A dog experiencing arthritis may demonstrate the following symptoms:
• Change in Movement
• Change in Mood
• Weakness
• Lameness
• Lack of Motivation
However, animals are extremely resilient. Many dogs and cats will conceal their injury as long as they can.
By the time your pet has shown outward signs of arthritis, their joints may have severely degenerated and they may be experiencing an incredible amount of pain and discomfort.
Cat Arthritis Symptoms
A cat experiencing arthritis may demonstrate the following symptoms:
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Lameness
• Decreased Movement
• Changes in Mood
• Changes in Behavior
Cats are even less likely to demonstrate early signs of arthritis. It is important to bring your pet to the vet. It often takes an expert to correctly identify early warning signs.
Pet Arthritis Prevention
We’ve researched and come up with a list of arthritis prevention tips for your pets. A greater awareness and attention to your dog or cat’s physical limitations and dietary needs will help reduce their risk of developing a painful arthritic condition.
1. Doctors Know Best
Arthritis is a condition that affects your pet’s joints. When the soft tissue and cartilage between their bones wears down it becomes painful and can even limit mobility.
It can be difficult to pinpoint exactly where this ailment originates. From developmental disorders to injuries, arthritis can trace its roots back to a number of different factors.
Visiting the veterinarian on a regular basis will help you to keep your dog in good health.
Take the opportunity to discuss any of your concerns or questions. As a medical professional, veterinarians can recognize subtle signs of arthritis, but it is up to owners to recognize changes in behavior or body movement.
2. Diet
Did you know obesity could cause arthritis? Extra weight puts stress on an animal’s joints and can lead to premature wear.
Treat your pet to a healthy diet that isn’t high in carbs. Look for food that incorporates joint-supporting supplements.
Encourage your pet to exercise and burn off any extra calories.
3. Avoid Injury
Young dogs can get over excited and misinterpret their surroundings. Supervise your peppy pet and help them avoid injuries that could lead to painful joint conditions later in life.
The world is designed for the easy mobility of humans. Help your dog to the ground when exiting the car. Leaping down results in the dog’s body weight putting unnecessary pressure on their joints.
4. Exercise
Animals of all ages need appropriate levels of exercise. Take your dog for daily walks and play in the park! Circulation helps to naturally lubricate a dog’s joints.
Even elderly dogs need exercise! Stretching is a great way to relieve pressure on aging joints.
Indoor cats are especially prone to immobility Toys, scratch pads, and healthy treats can motivate your feline friend to move and groove.
5. Massage
Pets like to be pampered too! You don’t need to be a trained professional to give your cat or dog a massage. Pinpoint areas of discomfort and take petting to the next level.
Applying pressure to problem areas help promote circulation.
6. Nutritional Supplements
There are many pet-friendly options of this supplement that help to lubricate joints and reduce the effects of arthritis. Look for one in a pet store near you!
- Glucosamine sulfate is a common joint-supporting supplement derived from shellfish.
- Chondroitin is another high effective joint lubricator that is added to many pet foods to promote healthy movement.
- Collagen is safe supplement that helps to soothe arthritic issues.
Speak with your pet’s veterinarian about which supplement is best.
Many quality pet foods incorporate these supplements into their formula for easy consumption. Oftentimes this is far easier than convincing your dog to swallow a pill.
7. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a far-dating Chinese medical practice. If you are lucky enough to have a pet acupuncturist in your area, you may want to consider this option.
Many veterinarians are trained in the practice.
Acupuncture can reduce pain by stimulating nerves and regulating the circulatory system.
>>> Oxyfresh offers a line of high quality pet care products to help you provide your pet with a long and happy life!
