Aging pets need extra love
Our pets are living longer lives than they ever have, so as they age, we may start to notice them slowing down, having trouble jumping in and out of the car and rising from rest. Most commonly the cause of these changes is arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease.
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that can cause pain and discomfort. It is defined as the progressive and permanent long-term deterioration of the cartilage surrounding the joints. Nearly 25 percent of dogs will experience arthritis in their lifetime and it can occur at any age and with any breed of dog or cat. There are some underlying conditions that may predispose an animal to osteoarthritis such as hip or elbow dysplasia, which is seen more commonly in specific breeds of dogs.
In addition to aging and congenital joint disorders such as dysplasia, there are many other causes of arthritis. Trauma or injuries, cartilage deficits, infections in the joint, obesity, tick-borne disease and poor nutrition can all contribute to the development of osteoarthritis.
The early signs of arthritis can be subtle, but a trip to the veterinarian often occurs when the pet is showing symptoms of lameness, which may be worse with exercise or after rest. Upon examination, the veterinarian may notice joint swelling, pain, decrease range of motion and muscle atrophy or wasting especially of the rear legs.
Most often further diagnostic tests are in order, primarily an x-ray or radiograph. Radiographs might identify the underlying problem, such as hip or elbow dysplasia and also demonstrate radiographic evidence of arthritis such as boney spurs in the joints.
Once osteoarthritis has been diagnosed, there are many avenues to help to ease the pain, minimize further degenerative changes and keep the joints as functional as possible. Since there is no cure, we need to approach treating osteoarthritis from many angles. Arthritic joints are sore and painful. Weight management is first and foremost so that the joints do not have to support the extra weight.
Keeping your arthritic pet at an optimal weight and providing low impact activities, such as walking and swimming, will improve your pet’s quality of life.
Many joint supplements are available which act to support the cartilage by slowing the ongoing breakdown and/or provide support to rebuild it. They also can have some anti-inflammatory effects. These supplements, also known as chondroprotective agents are familiar to most of us as glucosamine and chondrotin. Their main ingredient, polysulfated glycosaminoglycan is also available in an injectable form know as Adequan, which can be more effective and last longer than the oral forms. Omega fatty acids have also been shown to reduce inflammation.
Another component of arthritis management is medications to control pain and inflammation. The primary drugs in this category are non-steroidal medications, or NSAIDs, such as carprofen and meloxicam. These drugs help reduce inflammation, thereby reducing pain.
This class of drug is not without its side effects, including GI-upset, and potential negative effects on the liver and kidney. Because of these side effects, your veterinarian may recommend routine blood work to screen for changes in liver and kidney values. Analgesics are also used in combination with the NSAIDs or sometimes independently for those animals that cannot tolerate the NSAIDs. This would include drugs such as gabapentin and tramadol.
Many other therapies and supplements can be part of the “multimodal plan” for osteoarthritis such as acupuncture, stem cell therapy, rehabilitation techniques, platelet-rich plasma, CBD, green-lipped mussel supplement, and herbs such as turmeric. Changes in your pet’s environment may also be helpful; ramps, a well-padded bed and carpets on slippery floors, will all help to make getting around easier .
urgery is an option for some dogs with osteoarthritis, including those dogs with a developmental orthopedic disease that are at risk for developing osteoarthritis.
Lastly, let’s not forget about cats. One study showed that 90 percent of cats over 12 years showed some evidence of arthritis; they are just better at hiding it. Signs of arthritis in cats may include sleeping more and being less active, not wanting to interact with their owner, inappropriate elimination (outside the litter box), decreased grooming, discomfort when combed, reluctance to jump up/down, and hiding. Treatment is similar to dogs, controlling pain and inflammation, weight control and supplements.
Even though we are without a cure, early intervention and a long term comprehensive care plan can offer the best chance for providing the best quality of life possible for our pets with osteoarthritis.