What is (osteo)arthritis?
Arthritis is inflammation in the joints that usually occurs with age/ wear and tear. Sometimes animals develop arthritis in certain areas secondary to a previous injury or abnormal conformation.
What are the signs of arthritis?
- Stiff gait or limping
- Not wanting to jump up or jump down
- Worse in colder weather
- Tiredness
- Loss of muscle mass
- Aggression when touched
- Licking/chewing / nibbling painful area
How can I prevent and treat arthritis?
Large dogs are particularly susceptible to osteoarthritis and should be placed on a large breed diet from a young age as this will aid in the development of healthy bones and joints.
Joint supplements such as 4-cyte, Pernaease Powder, Chondroitin, Glucosamine and fish oil can be used to prevent and treat arthritis in our pets.
We also offer arthritis injections, these are called Synovan. Synovan increases joint fluid and improves blood supply to the cartilage for healing. These injections can be used as a preventative or treatment for arthritis.
In severe cases, animals with arthritis may require prescription medication to provide ongoing pain relief.
Adjunctive therapies in arthritic animals include laser therapy, acupuncture and hydrotherapy.