Pet Arthritis
As pets age, they can develop normal wear and tear on their joints, which can lead to arthritis pain, stiffness, and poor mobility. Fortunately, veterinarians can provide various treatments to help these animals enjoy greater comfort and improved movement. At Glastonbury Animal Hospital in Glastonbury, CT, we can assist pets troubled by arthritis pain and stiffness.
Symptoms of Arthritis in Pets
Dogs with arthritis may become reluctant to exercise normally. They may lick the affected joint to try to soothe it and may groan or vocalize when attempting to get up from a lying position. The animal may show limping or stiffness while walking, and there may be muscle atrophy around the affected joint. The animal may also become irritable or withdrawn. Cats may display reluctance to jump up on objects, spend less time grooming themselves, or have difficulty using the litter box.
Causes of Arthritis in Pets
Some breeds are more prone to arthritis than others. Aging is one of the primary causes of osteoarthritis pain and stiffness due to the wear and tear on cartilage from normal movement. Very athletic animals may develop arthritis as they age, and infection in the bones or joints can also lead to arthritis. Additionally, obese animals tend to develop arthritis more frequently.
Diagnosing Arthritis in Pets
Your veterinarian will perform X-rays to assess the condition of the bones and joints inside the body. Ultrasound testing can provide information about damage to soft tissues in and around the joints, and blood tests may be conducted to rule out other problems and determine inflammation and infection.
Treatments for Arthritis
Several medications are prescribed for pet arthritis pain and stiffness. Your vet may prescribe cortisone drugs to reduce inflammation and pain. Joint supplements given regularly can also help manage arthritis discomfort. Surgery can often repair damaged tissues in the joints, and in severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary.
Arthritis Prevention
Pet owners can take proactive measures to prevent osteoarthritis pain and poor mobility. Feed your pet a nutritious diet from their earliest days and keep their weight within the normal range to avoid excessive stress on the joints. Provide regular exercise suitable for the animal's age and breed, and ensure that any injuries to the bones or joints are properly treated when they occur. Providing soft bedding to protect tender joints as the animal ages is also beneficial. Discuss joint supplements with your vet as your pet ages.
Contact Glastonbury Animal Hospital
Our veterinarians and staff at Glastonbury Animal Hospital have dedicated our lives to maintaining the health of pets in the Glastonbury area. We offer a wide range of veterinary services, including wellness care, preventative care, surgery, vaccinations, dental care, allergy care, and pharmacy services. Contact Glastonbury Animal Hospital today at (860) 633-8394 to schedule an appointment and learn about effective treatments for your pet's arthritis discomfort.