Caring For a Pet With Arthritis: What You Need to Know
Cats and dogs can both suffer from the painful effects of arthritis, a joint inflammation that, if left untreated, can lead to stiffness, discomfort, and impaired movement. It’s important to be aware of the signs of arthritis so that you can take your pet to the vet for treatment as soon as possible. In order for you to know when to seek medical attention, let's go over some of the typical signs of arthritis in cats and dogs as well as some possible treatments.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a painful joint condition that can affect cats and dogs of all ages. It is caused by the breakdown of cartilage, which helps cushion the ends of bones within the joints. As this breaks down, bone rubs against bone, causing pain and inflammation. Many pets with arthritis will develop a limp or have difficulty getting up after resting for an extended period of time. They might also experience stiffness or lameness in one or more joints when they move around. If your pet has any of these symptoms, it’s important to get them checked out as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Arthritis in Cats and Dogs
Lameness or limping, hesitation to jump, increased sensitivity around the joints, difficulty getting up or lying down, difficulty climbing stairs, decreased activity level, irritability or aggression when touched, and general lethargy are just a few of the symptoms your pet may exhibit if they have arthritis.
Treatment for Arthritis in Pets
When it comes to treating your pet’s arthritis, there are several options available. Prescription medications that reduce inflammation and provide pain relief, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). A variety of supplements are available that can help promote joint health and mobility while reducing pain levels. In extreme cases where medication isn’t enough, your veterinarian could suggest surgery such as a hip replacement or knee repair.
How Fetch A Vet Can Help With Your Pet’s Arthritis
At Fetch A Vet Mobile Veterinary, we offer treatments that can help alleviate your pet’s pain and improve their quality of life. Our experienced veterinarians may recommend medications such as anti-inflammatories or corticosteroids to reduce pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Physical therapy may also be recommended to increase muscle strength and improve the range of motion in affected joints.
No matter what type of treatment plan works best for your pet’s arthritis condition, you can always count on Fetch A Vet Mobile Veterinary in Bluffton for expert care and advice every step of the way. At our Mobile Veterinary, we provide treatments tailored specifically for each individual pet so they can live a happy healthy life free from pain and discomfort. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care with personalized treatment plans tailored specifically for each patient—so you can rest assured that your furry friend will be in good hands with us. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can help manage your cat or dog's arthritis condition. We look forward to helping you improve your furry friend’s quality of life!
