Small Animal arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects one out of five pets and in most cases, occurs most frequently in older animals. However arthritis isn’t confined to older dogs and cats, it can strike your furry canine or feline regardless of age, health or breed. The most common form of arthritis in pets is osteoarthritis and is a result of trauma to the joint, inflammation in the joint, or age.
Signs and Symptoms
Degenerative arthritis is a painful condition and can make your pet’s life miserable, the sooner you detect the signs of arthritis, the faster you can adopt measures to slow its progression and help save your pet from further pain. Here is a rundown on some of the signs and symptoms that your pet may have arthritis:
• Stiffness, lameness, or limping after rest
• Loss of appetite or unusual weight gain
• Inactivity and sleeping a lot more
• Reluctance to walk, run or climb stairs
• Unusual urinating in the house
• Irritability and behavioral changes
• Depressed or withdrawn
What can be done for the joints of my dog or cat?
Light to moderate exercise is encouraged because it helps maintain your pet’s muscle mass and preserves joint flexibility. Swimming is one of the best low impact exercises for your dog. This month Lakewood Veterinary small animal clinic is featuring a variety of Joint Mobility products to help keep your pet happy and mobile. Ask our staff about how to short circuit the pain and inflammation pathway in your pet. Join the 30 day joint mobility challenge and help your pet move easier while saving money.