Osteoarthritis in your Senior Pet

‘My dog George is 9 years old now and slowing down, but it’s just his age’.

Yes, naturally your pet will slow down with age, but this could also be a sign of pain. Many owners fall into this category, as your household pet can hide pain well, especially cats! Quality of life is just at important in the senior years, however to assess their level of pain and its source can be quite difficult. This is why routine full body check ups at your veterinary practice are so valuable. In fact, vet recommend that ‘healthy’ senior pets should see the vet every 6 months. Six months may not seem a lot to us, but for our furry companions this can be an estimated 2 to 3 years of their lifetimes. One of the most common factors contributing to pain in senior pets is Osteoarthritis (OA), also called Degenerative Joint Disease.

What is the difference between arthritis and osteoarthritis?

Arthritis referrers specifically to the inflammation of the joints, whilst Osteoarthritis is used when referring to chronic joint inflammation due to the cartilage in the joint deteriorating. There are also many contributing factors that can speed up the process of osteoarthritis such as cancer, diet, genetic makeup, infection, immune diseases and previous injuries.

Senior pets are recommended to see their vet every 6 months

What are some possible signs of pain due to Osteoarthritis in our Senior Pets?

· Excessive grooming of a particular area near a joint

· Limping or lameness

· Reluctance to walk, play or jump

· Slower walking pace

· Stiffness shown when getting up/down from a sitting or laying down position

· Yelping in pain when the affected area is touched or used

· Behaviour changes, such as aggression

We can alleviate pain in our senior pets through some simple steps

How can we alleviate pain caused by Osteoarthritis in our Senior Pets?

1. Weight loss

Extra body weight puts unnecessary additional strain on the joints, as well as promoting other health issues such as Diabetes Mellitus, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, decreased liver function and many more. If your pet is overweight, speak to your vet about a weight management program. There are many prescription diets out there, so your vet can help you pick the most suitable one that also takes into consideration any additional health issues your pet might have. An overall target weight, including intermittent monthly targets, should be established to ensure that the diet is working and that your pet is not loosing too much weight too fast. Once achieved, ways to maintain the target weight should also be consulted to avoid the ‘yo-yo effect’ of weight loss and gain. Weight management should be teamed with an appropriate exercise program for the best outcome.

2. Exercise management

Exercise aims to promote weight loss and increase lean muscle mass, as well as improve and maintain range of movement. ‘Little and often’ for seniors with osteoarthritis is key. This keeps them moving but does not over-exhort their joints. Some walking aids can helpful for those struggling to walk. These include ‘help me up harnesses’ and slings which allow you to support your animal on a walk. Hydrotherapy is another great way to get your pet in shape and strengthen their muscles whilst applying less pressure on their joints.

3. Environmental changes

Putting down non-slip mats (e.g. yoga mats), mini steps to the sofa or beds, raised bowls, supportive memory foam beds and ramps to get into cars can ease the pressure on your pet's joint and lower risk of injury. Making sure they are kept warm and away from drafts during the winter months in particular can help to decrease pain sensation within the joints.

4. Medical treatment from your vet

Drugs such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and opioids can help alleviate pain. Specific disease modifying osteoarthritis drugs such as the injectable course of Pentosan polysulfate. Nutraceuticals like omega 3, glucosamine and green-lipped mussels as well as prescription diets (e.g. Hills J/D and Royal Canin Mobility) have also been shown effective. Notably, surgical procedures can be performed, but due to risks involved for senior pets, this method is usually reserved for predisposed patients before they reach their senior years (e.g. total hip replacements).

5. Physiotherapy

Consulting a physiotherapist allows your pet to get alternative or additional treatment rather than just drugs. These techniques used include therapeutic laser therapy, acupuncture, massage, thermal and cryotherapy, TENS electrical muscle stimulation, hydrotherapy and therapeutic exercises. Some of these techniques can be done at home once taught by a qualified physiotherapist.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and not for treatment advice. If you think your pet is suffering from osteoarthritis or any other illness or injury, please consult your veterinarian.