Signs of Arthritis in Pets

If you live in Miami, and your pet is having trouble walking, you may be wondering if your pet is suffering from arthritis. At Ferreira Animal Hospital, our veterinarian can diagnose arthritis in your pet and prescribe the best treatments available.

Can My Dog or Cat Get Arthritis?

Like people, pets can get arthritis as they age. Arthritis in pets is usually caused by the normal wear and tear on the joints, injury, infection, a hereditary condition, or a disease or condition of the joints. The most common types of arthritis in pets includes:

• Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease (DJD)
• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Knee dysplasia

What are the Symptoms of Arthritis in Pets?

Most pets suffer in silence, but they may be in a great deal of pain. They can't tell us that they're stiff and sore, so it's up to us to watch for the signs of discomfort. These include, (but are not exclusive to):

• Pet having trouble walking
• Lameness
• Unwilling to climb stairs or climb on furniture
• Inactivity
• Joints popping while the pet is getting up, lying down, or moving
• Difficulty lying down or getting up
• Whimpering or whining
• Licking the joint area
• Yelping when touched
• Personality change: becoming snappy or aggressive when touched
• Lack of appetite
• Lagging behind on walks
• Spinal problems
• Acting tired
• Muscles atrophying

Can Young Dogs and Cats Get Arthritis?

People tend to think of arthritis as a disease that older animals get, but younger animals can get arthritis too. Many pets who suffer genetic diseases such as hip dysplasia are more likely to have arthritis when the dog or cat is younger than older. (And yes, cats can get hip dysplasia!) When a joint is misaligned due to hereditary or congenital reasons, the wear and tear on the joint can cause arthritis to develop.

Can Anything Be Done to Treat Arthritis in Pets?

Your dog or cat doesn't have to live with the pain of arthritis. Although arthritis cannot be cured, your veterinarian can successfully treat the disease and make your pet much more comfortable. There are different options, such as pet anti-inflammatory medications, procedures, and surgeries that can extend your pet's activity and improve his overall quality of life.

Contact us at Ferreira Animal Hospital and make an appointment so we can treat your pet's arthritis. Our number is (786) 886-2106.