Studies have shown that 40% of all dogs and cats suffer from arthritis pain with 40% of dogs under 4 years old being affected. Arthritis is a common condition that can significantly impact your pet’s quality of life, but the good news is that treatment for arthritis is multimodal and there are several effective options available for both dogs and cats.
Weight Management and Diet
Weight management and diet are the best place to start when formulating a management plan for arthritis. Keeping your pet slim will help to keep any extra weight off of their joints, reducing stress and pain. Choosing a joint-friendly diet or adding glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements (formulated specifically for dogs or cats) to the diet can be very helpful as well. These supplements help support joint health and may slow the progression of arthritis.
Exercise and Environmental Changes
Exercise and environmental changes are another important part of arthritis management that owners can implement at home. The key is finding the right balance of activity to keep joints mobile without causing additional strain.
Exercise Recommendations
Short, frequent, low-impact exercise is essential to keep the joints moving and maintain muscle strength that supports the joints. Swimming, if available, is an excellent low-impact exercise option for dogs. Regular, gentle movement helps prevent stiffness and maintains mobility.
Environmental Modifications
Simple changes around your home can make a significant difference in your pet’s comfort and mobility:
- Lower-edged litter boxes: Allow cats to get in and out comfortably without having to jump or climb
- Non-slip rugs: Provide traction for dogs who slip on hardwood floors, reducing strain on joints
- Steps or ramps: Enable pets to access furniture, beds, or cars without jumping
- Orthopedic bedding: Provide supportive, comfortable sleeping surfaces
- Raised food and water bowls: Reduce neck and back strain during meals
Pain Medication Options
Pain medication is an important option we can discuss with you to help manage your pet’s arthritis discomfort. There are several effective treatments available:
- NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Have been the mainstay of arthritis therapy for many years and remain highly effective for managing pain and inflammation
- Adequan: An injectable medication that helps protect and repair cartilage, well-tolerated with good results
- Solensia: A newer option specifically for cats, this monthly injection provides targeted arthritis pain relief
Creating a Comprehensive Treatment Plan
The most effective approach to managing arthritis in pets combines multiple strategies tailored to your pet’s specific needs. At Animal Ark Animal Hospital, we work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include weight management, dietary changes, exercise modifications, environmental improvements, and appropriate pain medications.
Early intervention is key to maintaining your pet’s quality of life and slowing the progression of arthritis. If you notice signs such as stiffness, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, decreased activity, or changes in gait, it’s important to have your pet evaluated.
Schedule an appointment today at (615) 778-0880 to discuss the best treatment options for your pet! Our team is here to help your furry family member live comfortably and maintain an active, happy lifestyle despite arthritis.
