Does your dog find it difficult to jump in the car? Struggling to get up after lying down? Or is your cat finding it difficult to get into the litter tray? Or even slow to climb stairs?
If so they could be suffering from osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis occurs when there is loss or damage to the cartilage that acts as a cushion in-between two bones allowing our joints to move smoothly.
Osteoarthritis causes what we call chronic pain, this can be difficult to detect in our pets (especially in cats who seem to hide pain very well) but subtle changes in behaviour and regular checks with your vet can help us to detect it early on.
Some pets may also experience acute flares or injuries where they may be obviously limping or favouring a certain leg.
Osteoarthritis has a significant impact on our pets quality of life, in humans has been linked to anxiety, depression and insomnia. Our vets work closely with pet owners to tailor a treatment plan specific to the individual pets needs.
Management relies on a multidisciplinary approach – pain relief, joint supplements, weight management, hydrotherapy, laser and acupuncture. Our very own clinical director Shirley Norrington performs acupuncture on many of our patients!
If you feel your pet may be suffering with osteoarthritis or if you have any concerns then contact us for more information.
