For World Arthritis Day, a vet is calling on pet owners to look out for any signs of osteoarthritis (OA), which is a common cause of chronic pain in cats and dogs.
Affecting four out of five older canines and more than 90% of adult cats, OA is a disorder that causes stiff and painful joints, impacting movement and activity.
And it doesn’t just affect older animals, with more than a third of dogs under four showing signs too.
Whilst there’s no cure for OA, there are ways to help manage it, including following a dedicated programme which could include supplements which help with inflammation, protect joint structures, and support the pet’s overall mobility.
Early diagnosis from a vet is key to helping pets with OA live longer, healthier, and happier lives.
Jackie Marshall, a qualified vet and Technical Advisor at VetPlus, has advised owners to monitor their pet for symptoms of OA and take them to a vet for a consultation if they notice anything amiss.
There can be many signs of OA but three key ones to look out for are:
A change in activity
A change in activity can be a sign of OA in cats and dogs. For example, look out for any issues your pet might have climbing the stairs or jumping up. Limping or struggling on daily walks can also be a sign of an issue.
A change in behaviour
Chronic pain resulting from OA can lead to changes in behaviour which can easily be missed or put down to other things.
If you notice that your pet doesn’t want to be picked up or stroked or they become more withdrawn and their appetite changes, it’s best to consult your local vet.
You know your pet better than anyone else and if they are acting out of character, it’s likely a sign that something is wrong and this needs to be looked at by a vet.
Excessive grooming
Licking excessively at a joint can be a sign of pain in that area. Contact the vet if you notice your pet doing this or if you spot a patch of hair loss.
Jackie adds: “OA is a very painful condition that impacts many dogs and cats of all breeds and ages, but certain breeds are more at risk, especially large dogs such as Golden Retrievers, Labradors and Rottweilers.
“It’s important for owners to look out for signs of joint issues in their pets, both on this World Arthritis Day and all year round. The earlier the problem is diagnosed by a vet, the quicker steps can be taken to help.
