If your dog or cat appears to be losing speed, it may be due to joint problems—even if she is still young. According to Leilani Alvarez, D.V.M., head of integrative and rehabilitative medicine at the Animal Medical Center in New York City, osteoarthritis is one of the most common conditions in dogs over the age of one. Cats, too, develop it, though the exact number affected — and at what age — is more difficult to determine, as they have a higher tolerance for joint pain and are not diagnosed as frequently. According to some estimates, 90 percent of cats over the age of 12 have osteoarthritis.
According to Alvarez, an animal with stiff or painful joints may have difficulty rising from a lying position and may be unwilling to jump, climb stairs, or chase a ball. Discomfort can also manifest behaviorally, so you may notice your pet becoming less social or depressed, losing her appetite, or becoming unresponsive to touch.
Joint problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, breed, genetics, recent hospitalization or trauma. However, Alvarez notes that being overweight or obese is a significant factor in dogs. Increased weight puts additional strain on joints and causes bones to move abnormally, eventually destroying the cartilage that cushions the joints.
These steps can assist you in keeping your furry friend moving comfortably.
How to Help Dogs and Cats with Joint Pain
Maintain an Appropriate Weight
According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than half of dogs and cats in the United States are overweight or obese. “As a result, it’s critical to maintain an ideal weight for your pet, or even slightly underweight,” Alvarez explains. Consult your veterinarian prior to beginning a diet to determine the most effective weight-control strategies for your pet.
Get Yourself Moving!
According to Alvarez, regular physical activity helps pets maintain a healthy weight and prevents stiffness and muscle loss. Exercise should be moderate for pets who already have joint problems. Your veterinarian can advise you on the appropriate amount of activity, but Alvarez says that in general, arthritic dogs should get at least an hour of activity daily, spread out over several sessions. Cats require at least five minutes of exercise per day. (As an incentive, provide them with a toy such as a laser they can chase.)
Take supplements into consideration.
According to Alvarez, the most effective anti-inflammatory supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, green-lipped mussels, or undenatured type II collagen. Each of these has been clinically evaluated in dogs and cats. Alternatively, you can try a prescription diet fortified with fatty acids, such as fish oil. Several studies, including one conducted at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, have shown that oral CBD may also help dogs with osteoarthritis feel less pain and lameness. Alvarez recommends skipping one popular supplement: glucosamine chondroitin. It has not been proven clinically effective in arthritic pets.
Control your pain.
If your pet is in pain, you can discuss medication options with your veterinarian. Alvarez recommends a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory prescription medication such as Carprofen or Meloxicam to alleviate discomfort. Consider complementary therapies such as acupuncture, laser therapy, or hydrotherapy, she advises. They have been demonstrated to alleviate symptoms.