A Joint Effort

Protecting Your Pet from Arthritis

Just like humans, pets can suffer from osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease of the joints characterized by a breakdown of cartilage and the rubbing of bone-on-bone. If left untreated, arthritis in our animal companions can lead not only to chronic pain but long-term mobility issues.

There are several factors that contribute to your pet developing arthritis. They include:

• Obesity
• Advancing age
• Previous injury
• Genetics

It’s often difficult to tell when our pets have arthritis. It’s especially hard with cats, as they hide their pain well. General symptoms include limping, spinal issues like a hunch or a back that is sensitive to touch, tiredness, loss of muscle and constant licking, chewing or biting sensitive areas. 

If you suspect your pet might be suffering from arthritis, we can help!

To begin, if your pet is carrying a few extra points, your Southern Hills vet can recommend a specialty diet to help him or her shed the unhealthy weight, which, in turn, can lessen the burden your pet’s joints are forced to carry.

Joint Supplements may also be used to help support the joints and slow down the progression of the disease. Like as with human supplements, not all supplements are created equal. Your Southern Hills vet can advise you as to which supplements may be best for your pet.

We can also advise you on a healthy exercise regimen for your furry family member. Gentle exercise like short walks can help, but don’t push your pet. That could put too much stress on the joints. Talk to your vet if you’re unsure about your pet’s limits.

If diet and exercise aren’t doing the trick, we’d be happy to discuss other pain management strategies, including the prescription of safe and effective medications to alleviate your pet’s symptoms and help them get back into tail-wagging and pouncing shape.

Want to chat with your vet about arthritis and your pet? Schedule an appointment right on our website or by calling (318) 686-5945.