Arthritis in dogs and cats have similar symptoms, causes and treatments. As your pet ages, they may suffer when their cartilage begins to wear away and stops protecting their bones during movement. If you believe your pet is showing signs of arthritis, speak to your Brisbane veterinary specialist.
The Symptoms of Arthritis
There are a few telling signs that could mean your cat or dog is suffering from arthritis. Speak to us if you notice:
- Limping – if your pet is favouring one of their legs or shows signs of limping when they first wake up, they could have arthritic joints
- Difficulty Moving – your dog may have difficulty getting in or out of the car, or your cat may stop jumping on high objects because of pain and discomfort
- Spinal Abnormalities – a sore neck, lameness in hind legs, and a hunched back are all signs of arthritis
- Tiredness – your pet may become tired earlier than normal and spend more time resting
- Behavioural Issues – if your animal becomes irritable or snaps at you during petting, they could be protecting themselves from additional pain
- Muscle Atrophy – arthritic pets may have thinner legs due to muscle wastage because they have stopped using the limb
- Licking and Chewing – pets with arthritis will show more attention to affected areas, leading to hair loss and inflammation of the skin
What Causes Arthritis in Animals?
Arthritis typically occurs as a result of ageing, obesity, infections, and medical conditions. This problem can be caused, and severely worsened, by dislocations, fractures and traumatic injuries. If your pet suffers an injury, don’t hesitate in taking them to see a vet because you may be able to help them heal in a way that minimises their chances of arthritis.
A healthy diet plays an important role in preventing arthritis or slowing down its progression. As an animal owner, you are in control of their weight, and obese animals are at a high risk of multiple conditions.
How Is Arthritis Treated?
Although arthritis cannot be cured, there are multiple pathways you can take to manage your pet’s pain and promote ligament growth. At Kedron Veterinary Clinic, we use radiography to obtain an accurate diagnosis of the internal bone and soft tissues.
K-Laser Treatment
We use advanced machines that offer therapeutic laser treatments for pain relief and tissue healing. K-Laser Therapy delivers specific wavelengths of laser light to induce a photochemical reaction, increasing circulation, reducing inflammation and minimising pain.
Medication
There are a few medications available to treat animals with arthritis, helping to stabilise joint membranes and repair cartilage such as Cartophen (Zydax), Beransa, Solensia and Galliprant. Medication is often used to allow an animal to resume normal exercise without pain. Speak to your vet about this option to create an optimal treatment plan.
Make an Appointment with Kedron Veterinary Clinic
Kedron Veterinary Clinic in Brisbane uses specialised machines to administer arthritis treatment that manages pain and improves range of movement. Call (07) 3857 1785 or contact us online.