OSTEOARTHRITIS

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic (long term) pain in aging dogs and cats. It is a progressive and degenerative disorder of the joints causing pain and inflammation.  Osteoarthritis is generally caused over time as a result of long term abnormal stress being placed on the joints. Predisposing factors include: age related degeneration, being overweight, from an old injury, or poor development of the joint. Arthritis can affect cats and dogs of various size, age and breed. However, there is a greater incidence of osteoarthritis in older dogs as well as larger breeds, for example, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Great Danes and St. Bernards. The most common clincal signs of osteoarthritis include: Stiffness in the legs, reduced activity, reluctance to walk or play, difficulty rising from a resting position, trouble climbing stairs or jumping into the car, resting more than usual, limping, licking or chewing at the joints and personality change that may include aggression or a defensive reaction when touched.    Diagnosis of osteoarthritis should be done by a veterinarian and will require a physical examination and possibly other tests such as radiography or joint fluid analysis. Though arthritis cannot be cured, it can be managed with an aim to reduce or alleviate pain/discomfort and slow down further degeneration. The level of severity will of course affect the success of treatment so if you think your pet may be suffering from arthritis, please speak to one of our veterinarians.