by Erin Forbes, DVM, Mountain View Animal Hospital Chair, VVMA Communications Committee May is arthritis awareness month in pets. Just like humans, animals all suffer from this inflammatory condition that causes pain, swelling, and a decreased quality of life. Osteoarthritis (OA) is considered a degenerative joint disease, which means it cannot be cured but controlled. Fortunately, there are many options in veterinary medicine to help ensure your beloved companion is able to enjoy their life to the fullest, even when they have arthritis.
Arthritis is a complex disease that leads to chronic pain. The joints will begin to deteriorate, your pet will start to make lifestyle changes—walking less, hiding more, not coming down the stairs. While some may think this is normal age-related changes, if caused by arthritis it is due to pain and should be addressed.
If you are concerned your pet has arthritis you should speak to your veterinary care team. The first step to determine how a pet is doing is a physical exam. The doctor will generally do a full orthopedic exam and examine the joints, spine, muscles, and gait of the pet. If concerns for arthritis arise, radiographs may be recommended as you can see bony remodeling, joint fluid, dysplasia, and other signs of OA in a radiograph.
If your pet is diagnosed with OA there are multiple things that can be done to relieve the pain and inflammation. Typically a multimodal approach to management is used by your pet’s medical team. This includes different types of medication--anti-inflammatory, nerve pain, monoclonal antibodies--exercise, supplements, and physical therapy. There are multiple types of anti-inflammatory medications available for companion animals and your veterinarian will discuss the pros and cons of each one, should your pet require it. Weight loss is generally a part of the treatment plan as well as a healthy weight equals a healthy gait. Sometimes, there may be specific foods recommended that can improve their joints while decreasing weight.
Once the treatment plan is put into effect improvement in your pet’s daily life should be seen. This includes changes in demeanor, spending less time sleeping, playing more, and interacting with owners and other pets.
If you are concerned your has osteoarthritis reach out to their medical team today!
The Vermont Veterinary Medical Association (VVMA) is a professional organization of 380 veterinarians dedicated to compassionate animal care and quality medicine.
