Living (and loving) Life
Arthritis is a painful and progressive disease that affects nearly all cats and dogs to some degree later in life. The condition is characterized by swelling and inflammation of the joints and typically causes pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis, but medications and lifestyle changes can halt progression of the disease and greatly improve symptoms.
Below are ten steps you can take to improve your pet’s comfort level.
Before we begin…
First of all, let me remind you that I’m not a veterinarian, just an animal lover like you. Everything you read below was gleaned from years of personal research and consultations with actual vets.
Also, just like us humans, all pets are different, with varying ages and different existing medical conditions. That means a treatment that’s appropriate for one pet might well be dangerous for another.
Before you can begin a treatment plan for your arthritic pet, you’ll need to know the extent of your pet’s joint damage and rule out other causes for your pet’s symptoms. Your vet will examine your pet, note the symptoms and order X-rays or other diagnostic tests before working with you to develop a comprehensive treatment program.
Now, if your vet agrees that they are safe and appropriate for your pet, here are a few things that just might help it live a longer and more enjoyable life:
1 – Consider the use of medication
Medication is not a cure for arthritis, but it can effectively control symptoms of the disease. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce inflammation and swelling, and steroid injections offer short-term help for severe pain or stiffness.
2 – Try using applicable supplements
Over-the-counter supplements, especially those containing glucosamine and chondroitin, can help repair damaged cartilage and protect against future joint damage. Cosequin and Glyco-Flex, two OTC supplements that improve joint health, are well tolerated and act quickly to improve symptoms.
3 – If needed, put your pet on a diet
Overweight and obese animals are at greater risk for developing arthritis because excess weight increases joint strain. If your pet is overweight or obese, one of the most important things you can do for his joints and his overall health is to make changes to his diet and activity level to promote healthy weight loss.
4 – Encourage physical activity
Daily exercise can increase flexibility and strengthen muscles and ligaments to improve your pet’s mobility. Arthritic cats and dogs may need assistance when exercising, however. Consult your veterinarian about the safest way to introduce exercise into your pet’s life.
5 – Try gently massaging your pet
Massage, whether amateur or professional, improves circulation, increases flexibility, and induces feelings of calmness and happiness. If you are not comfortable giving your pet a full massage, spend some time each day gently stroking sore areas of your pet’s body.
6 – Take a hard look at your floors
Slippery floors are dangerous for any animal, but they can be disastrous for arthritic pets. Place non-slip rugs down on areas your pet uses frequently, and remove hazards to prevent slipping and tripping.
7 – If needed, replace your pet’s bedding
Arthritic animals have difficulty getting comfortable and sleeping, especially thin animals without a lot of natural padding. Give your pet a soft bed to sleep on and place a folded blanket on the floor in areas where your pet likes to hang out.
8 – Help with your pet’s grooming
Arthritic dogs and cats may be unable to groom themselves properly, which makes it your responsibility to help them with this need. Trim your pet’s hair around his rear end and face, brush regularly to remove tangles, and bathe your pet gently to remove dirt and debris.
9 – Understand your pet’s pain
One of the most important things you can do for your arthritic animal is understand its condition and provide lots of love and patience. Arthritic pets may be slower than other animals and tend to be less tolerant of noise, children, and changes in routine. Give your pet extra time and plenty of peace and quiet.
Bottom line
Although there is no cure for your pet’s arthritis, you can improve his mobility and quality of life by making changes that will increase his comfort level. Light exercise, slip-free floors, and nutritional supplements can ease your pet’s symptoms and ensure a long and independent life.
Credits: Photo courtesy of Blair Humphries.