Arthritis Services for Pets

As your loyal companion nears their golden years, arthritis is just one of many conditions they are vulnerable to getting. Unfortunately there is no cure for arthritis. The good news is with proper care, your furry companion can live a comfortable life despite the disease. Call us at 519-969-7390 for more details.

How is arthritis treated in pets?

Therapy will depend on the type and severity of your pet's arthritis along with any other health conditions they have. The veterinarian may prescribe one or a combination of the following:

• Lifestyle changes (weight loss, low impact exercises, etc.)
• Environmental modifications (non-slip padding on hard surfaces, orthopedic beds, etc.)
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Rehabilitation (massage, etc.)
• Supplements
• Specialized diets
• Surgery (only for extreme cases)

Can I prevent my cat or dog from getting arthritis?

Yes and no. Some pets are genetically prone to arthritis and will get the disease despite any intervention. That being said, there are many steps you can take to minimize or delay their symptoms. The foremost thing is to prevent injuries and strain on their joints and muscles all throughout their life. This can be done by:

• Warming them up before any type of exercise (e.g. slow walks on even surfaces before moving onto rougher terrain)
• Placing non-slip carpet on slippery surfaces in your home to lessen trips, slips, and falls
• Opt for consistent types of exercise versus short bursts of intense activity. For example, daily walks is healthier for your loving companion compared with no exercise during the weekday and then intense hikes over the weekend.