Many people think slowing down is simply a normal part of aging, but that’s not always the case. Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting dogs and cats, and it can significantly impact a pet’s comfort, mobility, and quality of life.
The good news is that osteoarthritis can often be managed successfully through a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, rehabilitation, nutrition, and other therapies. At Pet Wellness Veterinary Center, our goal is to identify joint pain early, develop an individualized treatment plan, and help your companion enjoy the best quality of life possible.
Signs Your Pet May Have Arthritis
Many pets hide pain surprisingly well. Instead of crying or limping constantly, they often show subtle changes in behavior. Common signs include:
- Difficulty getting up after resting or hesitating to use stairs
- Difficulty jumping into the car or onto furniture
- Slower walks or tiring more quickly
- Stiffness after exercise or limping/favoring a leg
- Cats jumping onto furniture less often or having difficulty using the litter box
Treatment Options & Weight Management
There is no single treatment that works for every pet. Most arthritis management plans combine several therapies to improve comfort. Depending on your pet’s needs, recommendations may include injectable therapies (like Librela® for dogs or Solensia® for cats), anti-inflammatory medications, joint supplements, therapeutic diets, and low-impact exercise.
One of the most effective ways to reduce stress on painful joints is maintaining a healthy body weight. Even modest weight loss can significantly improve mobility and comfort while reducing strain on arthritic joints.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is arthritis just a normal part of aging? No. Arthritis becomes more common with age, but pain is never considered a normal part of aging. Many pets benefit from treatment that improves comfort and mobility.
- Should I stop exercising my pet? Usually no. Appropriate, low-impact exercise is often beneficial for arthritic pets. Our veterinarian can recommend an exercise plan based on your pet’s condition.
- Are supplements enough to treat arthritis? Supplements may be helpful for some pets, but they are generally most effective as part of a comprehensive treatment plan rather than the sole therapy.