Osteoarthritis is defined as degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone, most common from middle age onward. It causes pain and stiffness, especially in the hip and knee joints. Osteoarthritis hurts! I know because I have it. Some days the pain is tolerable. Other days it is not. I have the ability to say that I am not feeling well. Our pets are not able to tell us when they are experiencing pain.
As pets age, wear and tear on the joints cause inflammation and arthritis. Your pet may walk slower. You may notice that they seem stiff when getting up from a laying down position or may groan with the effort. They may not jump up on the bed or into the car as easily as they used to. They may seem lethargic on rainy days. You may notice some limping on occasion. Although these are signs of getting older, they are not normal and there are treatments available.
The veterinarians at Kingsbrook Animal Hospital are well versed in pain management. They can make recommendations based on your pet and it's lifestyle. There are many options available for osteoarthritis management. Here are a few:
Hill's Prescription J/D diet is formulated for joint health. The ratio of fatty acids in the diet help to reduce inflammation. It also includes glucosamine and chondroitin which are nutraceuticals that are found in normal cartilage and tendons. The addition of these agents helps to relieve joint pain and restore cartilage.
Dausaquin is a once daily glucosamine/chondroitin supplement. It comes in a flavored, chewable tablet for dogs. It comes in a capsule form for cats that can be opened and sprinkled on the food.
Welactin is a high-potency natural salmon oil supplement. Welactin can be mixed with food, and is a rich source of Omega 3 fatty acids which have beneficial effects on the joints, skin, heart, kidneys and immune system.
Adequan (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) is a prescription, polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) that helps prevent the cartilage in your dog’s joint from wearing away. It helps keep the cartilage healthy and intact, so that the bone in the joint cannot touch other bones.
NSAID's or Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescription medications that are used to treat inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
If your pet is showing signs of osteoarthritis, call our office in Frederick, MD at 301-631-6900 for an appointment. We will be glad to help you keep your pet healthy and comfortable into it's senior years.
By: Ranee Baker RVT
