Arthiritis & 'Hidden Pain'

Overview                            

Osteoarthritis is a form of joint inflammation characterized by chronic deterioration or degeneration of the joint cartilage. It is also known as “degenerative joint disease” or DJD.

Primary osteoarthritis is rare, it is generally secondary to a joint disease (such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, shoulder dislocation etc.) or to a trauma. Although it is a progressive disease which will worsen with age, some pets with congenital primary joint disease can show signs of osteoarthritis at a very early age.

Symptoms

Dogs:

Dogs may show decreased activity level; be unwilling to perform certain tasks and have intermittent lameness or a stiff gait that slowly progresses. Lameness or abnormal gait may become worse with exercise, long periods of lying down or resting, and/or cold weather.

Cats:

Obvious lameness may not be seen; instead, they may have difficulty grooming, jumping onto furniture, or accessing the litter box; and they may have increased irritability.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made on history, clinical signs, and pain when manipulating the joint. It is confirmed by X-rays showing alterations of the joint / cartilage.

Treatment and prevention

• Weight management is very beneficial as obese dogs put more pressure on their joints
• Physiotherapy can help: Maintaining or increasing joint motion—passive range of motion exercises, massage, swimming.
• Joint supplements to slow the progression of the disease are of great help, and omega-3 fatty acids can also be used to reduce the inflammation.
• As the disease progresses, some anti-inflammatory medications may be needed to help with the pain and inflammation.

Ask us for more information on 04 388 3827 or book you pet in for a consultation with one of our vets.