Your guide to Osteoarthritis in pets

  • Post category:Pet Advice

Hi Paw Parent, just like you, pets want to live a long and happy life.

Sadly, our pets are good at hiding their pain.
With proper health care management, older pets can live their lives to their full potential, which may be well over the equivalent of 100 human years!

The key to giving them a longer, healthier time with you can be pretty simple, it’s all about detecting problems early. Half yearly check-ups and thorough physical examinations are recommended for Senior pets. As are lots of pats and cuddles, but you already knew that bit!

What is Osteoarthritis?

Arthritis affects at least one in five adult dogs and 40% of cats. (Zoetis 2023)

It is one of the most common sources of chronic pain treated by veterinarians and you may see signs of decreased mobility. This painful degenerative joint disease progresses as your pet ages.

Arthritic pain is caused by inflammation of your pet’s joints caused by ageing of the joint or by injury.

How Osteoarthritis affects older pets

Senior pets can develop painful osteoarthritis in their joints which often goes undetected, impacting their quality of life. Osteoarthritis is caused by a lifetime of wear and tear, excess weight and joint- related injuries. If you notice your pet’s movement slowing down, this may be a symptom of osteoarthritis – a condition that is treatable with highly effective options.

If you notice your pet’s movement slowing down, this may be a symptom of osteoarthritis – a treatable condition that is highly effective.