Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary defines osteoarthri- tis as: A degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone that can cause pain, and stiffness. This disease can afflict humans and pets as well. Bradley R. Cool- man, DVM of small animal surgery with the University of Illinois Veterinary Medicine Teaching Hospital at Urbana has written extensively on this topic. He maintains that dogs and cats suffer arthritis not because of advanced age but often because of developmental or degenerative diseases or by a direct injury to a joint at an early age. Over a lifespan, arthritis develops as animals experience repeated injury to a joint.
Because there is a positive correlation between the severity of the disease and the weight of the animal, osteoarthritis is more evident in larger heavier animals although it also occurs in smaller cats and dogs. More weight obviously means more stress and more stress without proper care results in more severe debilitation. Larger, faster growing animals are also more prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which if not carefully monitored often results in arthritis. Your veterinarian will watch for signs of injury and dysplasia, but do report any injury promptly to avoid further insult to a joint.
Animal General’s approach to osteoarthritis is preventative in nature and includes the use of Cosequin, a combination of glucosamine and chondrotin, by age 5. We also recommend Synovi G3 Chews which contain fatty acids, msm’s, and glucosamine. Adherence to a program of moderate excerise and a healthy weight are very important factors for the maintenance of joint mobility and muscle strengh.
If your pet is already experiencing pain from arthritis, the use of drugs such as Rimadyl, Dermaxx or Metacam may be recommended for dogs. These are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and can be administered over a long period provided liver func- tion is normal. Cats cannot take non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs. Never administer any therapy or drug to a pet without first consulting with your veterinarian.
Recently The Animal Medical Center has added a Rehabilitation and Fitness Service to their specialties list. This program can be of great benefit to an animal with osteoarthritis. It is designed to improve muscle function, and increase strength and joint flexibility in animals. Check out their site for further information. http://www.amcny.org/doctor/ specialty/rehab.aspx

Consult Your Veterinarian if You Notice:
• Limping or refusal to bear weight on a limb, especially after a fall or rough play.
• Refusal to jump, play or climb stairs.
• Tenderness when flexing a joint.
• Your dog or cat growls or snaps when you touch a sore joint.
• Your pet has difficulty rising from a prone position.
• Your pet lags behind on walks or slows down in play and other activities.

Beyond Medication
Simple Changes Help Ease Aches and Pains
• Slow down and take more time when walking or playing with your pet. Support and help him if necessary, and try not to rush him through activities.
• Keep outdoor excursions short during damp, wet weather and keep your pet’s bed dry and warm.
• Use an arthritis leash or towel to help your pet get up from a resting position. Google: pet arthritis harness.
• Elevated food dishes help pets who experience arthritis in the neck and shoulder area.
• Thermo reflective or electrically heated beds with an egg crate or a soft, thick mattress will increase comfort. Consult with your veterinarian about which one to use.
• Have your pet avoid hardwood or uncarpeted areas that lack traction and can be slippery.
• Consider purchasing ramps or using a footstool for easier access to cars or furniture.
• Avoid areas of great activity and supervise your pet’s time with active children.
Aching Animals?

If you suspect that your pet is having problems with arthritis, don’t hesitate to call Animal General to schedule an appointment!