Arthritis

Overview:

Arthritis is also known as degenerative joint disease and is the progressive destruction of cartilage within the joints. The most common joints affected are hips, knees, elbows, and shoulders. 90% of cats over 12 years of age have some form of arthritis and 20% of dogs over 1 year of age do.

Causes:

Arthritis is most commonly an age related problem, but can arise from previous trauma, obesity, or genetic predisposition. There is also arthritis of infectious origin that is caused by a penetrating wound, post-surgical, or other internal bacteria.

Symptoms:

Dogs will exhibit decreased activity, intermittent lameness, stiff joints (especially after a nap), and overall malaise. Cats generally show very subtle signs such as difficulty grooming, not accessing the litter box readily, or increased irritability. Many patients mask their pain until it is severe, therefore not showing any signs at all.

Treatment:

Many very effective medications are available. All older patients need to be on a joint supplement when they reach their senior years regardless of clinical signs. Some senior diets have joint supplement within the food, although it is still recommended to give additional supplement. There are many NSAIDs (non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs) that help tremendously with pain and inflammation. If your pet is overweight, weight loss is a must. Antibiotics will be prescribed if there is a bacterial component. Physical therapy such as swimming, massage, controlled leash walks uphill, and passive range of motion are imperative.