Each of these ailments can be a problem separately for your pet; however, for many, especially older pets, they can have all three ailments. Early recognition of these ailments can help your pet live a happier and healthier life during their senior years.

Let’s talk about obesity. At least 20% of the pet population in the US is considered obese. Obesity leads to inactivity, leading to more weight gain, which can lead to arthritic pain. Inversely, arthritic pain can lead to inactivity, leading to weight gain, which ultimately leads to obesity. Both arthritis and obesity limit mobility, negatively affects cartilage, which in turn results in muscle atrophy and weakness.

Arthritis is a progressive painful disease. In the early stages of arthritis, your pet may not exhibit obvious pain and will not show any signs of lameness. Pain precedes altered mobility so we can miss arthritis developing in your pet. Because our pets cannot talk, it is important that you tell your veterinarian about any changes to your pet’s activity and mobility.

Let’s assess your pet’s mobility. Evaluation starts with a good observation of your pet standing, sitting and walking. In a standing position, your pet may not stand evenly on all 4 legs. There may be a subtle uneven distribution of weight. When rising, your pet may take longer to stand. Conversely, your pet may hesitate to sit and may take longer. Your pet may start to become slower than normal and may be reluctant to jump or climb stairs. When encouraged, he or she can jump and climb stairs, but is not as eager as before. You attribute may attribute this to old age, but it may be due to pain.

Treatment for arthritic pain is management, not a cure. Arthritis is progressive, not static, so therapy adjustments will be needed. Regular checkups are imperative so your veterinarian can make the necessary treatment changes. The treatment goal for arthritis is improving your pet’s quality of life by decreasing pain and inflammation. When pain and inflammation are under good control, your pet can become more active, improve muscle tone, build strength and lose weight.

What types of treatments are available? Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination of your pet’s musculoskeletal system, conduct an orthopedic exam, evaluate the gait and assess body condition score. If your pet is overweight, your veterinarian may give you a weight reduction plan which includes a weight loss diet and exercise regimen. If a baseline blood test is normal, your veterinarian may prescribe a combination of drug therapies to help control arthritic symptoms:

  1. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) – reduces inflammation and pain,
  2. Omega 3 Fatty Acids – reduces inflammation in the body naturally,
  3. Glucosamine/Chondroitin/MSM – joint supplement to protect the cartilage and helps joint comfort,
  4. Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycans – injectable osteoarthritis drug for dogs,
  5. Opiates and medication for nerve pain – for advanced pain control.

As with most diseases, early detection is the key to providing the best help for your pets, particularly as they age. Take control of obesity, the slow progression of arthritis, and watch for signs of pain. Please take your pet to your family veterinarian and check for early signs of arthritis this year.