Easing the Pain of Arthritis

Have you noticed that your dog is starting to take a little longer to get up?  Kitty can't make the jump to the counter any more?  Maybe your best pal isn't as willing to chase a stick, or simply won't bring it back.  As dogs and cats age, they can fall victim to joint problems just like we do.  Osteoarthritis is a painful swelling of the joints caused by a lifetime of wear and tear.  It often goes unnoticed in our pets because they seem to muddle through with the pain longer than we do.  There is no reason that arthritis should slow them down, change their lifestyle, or relationship with you.

See Your Veterinarian
The first thing that you should do when you see your pet is having a problem is to make an appointment to have him evaluated by your veterinarian.  Don't just assume that "he is getting older," and leave it to nature.  There are many treatable diseases that can cause the same signs and it is important to remember that when you take your pet to the doctor each year, your pet has aged the equivalent of approximately 6-7 years in that time.  Your veterinarian will examine your pet, ask about the changes that have occurred, possibly take x-rays and check all his systems with blood work.

Treatment
If your veterinarian has ruled out any other medical problems, and diagnosed your osteoarthritis (the most common type of age-related arthritis), it is time to work out a plan to make him more comfortable.

• Anti-inflammatory medication is available for dogs and cats, and your veterinarian will prescribe one that is appropriate for your pet's condition.  DO NOT give any human medication.  Remember to give the medication on the prescribed schedule, and monitor closely for any changes in your pets eating habits or behavior.

• Your veterinarian may require periodic testing to check the effects of certain medications

• Dietary supplements made for helping fortify damaged joints may also be prescribed

• Surgery for some types of joint problems may be recommended

What Can You Do to Make Your Pet's Life Easier and More Pain-Free?

• Keep dishes and litter pans close to the floor

• Try to keep your pet from having to climb stairs, or install non-slip pads.  Ramps covered with grass carpet are also a great idea, especially for going in and out of the house.

• Orthopedic bedding is available at most local pet stores; it will make laying down and getting up easier

• Carpet areas where your pet frequently travels

• Install baby-gates to prevent your pet from going into slippery tiles/wood floor areas or up the stairs

• Check pets for hair and coat condition.  Stiffness makes it hard to groom themselves, and you may need to pay more attention to their grooming needs.

• Make sure your pet's nails are clipped often; long nails just add difficulty, making floors more slippery, and getting caught in carpets

• Keep them warm.  Cold joints are less flexible, and more painful.  Water bottles are great for this, but never a heating pad.

• Ask your veterinarian for an exercise program that will help, but not overstrain your pet's joints.

• KEEP THEM LEAN!  If your pet is overweight ask your veterinarian for a weight loss plan consisting of diet and exercise.  The more weight they are carrying, the worse it is for this condition.

- Courtesy of the New Jersey Veterinary Medical Association

If you need a veterinarian, please call the New Jersey Veterinary Medical Association at (973) 379-1100 for a referral or visit their website at: www.njvma.org.  The New Jersey Veterinary Medical Association represents the states 1,400 licensed veterinarians.

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