Arthritis in Pets By Dr Susan Coe

Is your dog a bit slow to get up from lying down?  Is there a reluctance to jump on things that used to be easily managed?  Does your cat need a boost to get up on the sofa or bed?  Is there a general loss of “pep in their step”?

Getting older is not generally the reason these sorts of changes occur.  Our pets suffer from arthritis just like we do.  And it can cause pain as well as affect their quality of life.  Thankfully we can help with a variety of options and a multimodal approach, meaning that several approaches combined may bring better results than a single therapy.  And remember to never give your pet human medication without speaking to your veterinarian.  Certain medications can be toxic to pets, and while you feel that you may be helping them, you may actually be causing more harm.

If you feel that your pet may be developing signs of arthritis, the best thing you can do for them is to get a diagnosis and start therapy as soon as possible.  Please call for an appointment to evaluate and discuss the possibility of arthritis in your pet.