Arthritis in Cats and Dogs: Symptoms, Causes & Care

Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, is a widespread condition affecting many cats and dogs as they age. It involves inflammation and deterioration of joint cartilage, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While more common in older pets, arthritis can affect any breed or age. Breeds predisposed include larger dogs like Labradors, German Shepherds, Retrievers, and Rottweilers, while Burmese cats are more prone among felines. Responsible owners should be vigilant for signs and seek veterinary advice promptly for diagnosis and care.

Recognising Symptoms of Arthritis in Pets

Early detection is key to improving your pet's quality of life. Common signs include:

• Difficulty standing, sitting, or moving as usual
• Reluctance to run, jump, or climb stairs
• Favouring a limb or limping
• Reduced interest in playing or decreased activity levels
• Increased sleeping and possible weight gain
• Changes in behaviour, such as irritability or withdrawal
• Stiff or sore joints felt upon palpation

Cats often hide pain, so watch for subtle signs like decreased grooming or urinating outside the litter box. Prompt veterinary examination, which may include X-rays and joint fluid analysis, will confirm the diagnosis and the type of arthritis your pet has.

Causes and Risk Factors Behind Arthritis

Arthritis arises from multiple factors. Age-related wear and tear is the most frequent cause. Other significant contributors include:

• Obesity, adding undue stress to joints
• Genetic predispositions, such as hip dysplasia in certain breeds
• Previous joint injuries or trauma
• Inflammatory or immune system disorders

Preventing excess weight and avoiding injuries can reduce risk, but some pets may develop arthritis despite the best care.

Effective Treatments and Pain Relief

While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, effective management can greatly ease your pet's discomfort and enhance mobility. Your vet may recommend:

• Anti-inflammatory medications like Rimadyl or Metacam to relieve pain and inflammation
• Joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin to support cartilage health
• Hydrotherapy, especially for dogs, which helps strengthen muscles without stressing joints
• Weight management and controlled low-impact exercise to keep joints flexible
• Environmental changes, like ramps or soft bedding, to aid mobility

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to adjust treatments as the condition progresses.

Preventing Arthritis Through Lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is the cornerstone of arthritis prevention. For pets prone to joint issues, introducing supplements around middle age may help delay onset. Avoiding injuries by supervising physical activity and providing safe environments also protects joints. Early veterinary reviews can identify joint abnormalities, enabling intervention before arthritis develops.

Caring for a pet with arthritis demands patience and attention but can greatly enhance their quality of life. Responsible pet owners play a vital role in prevention, early diagnosis, and ongoing management.