Arthritis in Pets: Recognizing and Managing Joint Pain
Arthritis affects the majority of senior pets. Learn the signs, management options, and how to keep your pet comfortable.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that causes chronic pain and reduced mobility. It affects an estimated 90% of cats over 12 and a significant percentage of dogs, especially large breeds. While it can't be cured, it can be effectively managed to maintain quality of life.
- 90% of cats over 12 have arthritis
- Large-breed dogs are at higher risk
- The main sign is reduced activity and reluctance to move
- Cats show arthritis differently than dogs
- Multi-modal treatment (medication + supplements + lifestyle) works best
- Weight management is critical — every pound matters
Recognizing Arthritis
In dogs: stiffness after rest, reluctance to walk or play, difficulty with stairs or jumping, limping (may shift between legs), and yelping when joints are touched. In cats: reduced jumping (no longer goes to high places), difficulty getting in/out of the litter box, reduced grooming (especially the back), matted fur, irritability, and hiding. Cats rarely limp — instead they become less active.
Treatment Options
NSAIDs (meloxicam, grapiprant): reduce inflammation and pain. Gabapentin: helps with chronic pain, especially in cats. Joint supplements: glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids. Injectable treatments: Adequan (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) and Librela (bedinvetmab — monthly injection for dogs). Physical therapy: hydrotherapy, laser therapy, acupuncture. Weight management: reduces joint stress significantly.
Lifestyle Modifications
Provide orthopedic beds with memory foam. Use ramps for getting on furniture and in/out of cars. Place non-slip mats on slippery floors. Raise food and water bowls. Keep litter boxes accessible (low entry for cats). Maintain gentle, regular exercise — swimming is ideal for dogs with arthritis. Avoid high-impact activities. Keep your pet warm in cold weather.
New Treatment Advances
Librela (bedinvetmab): a monthly injection that blocks nerve growth factor, a key pain signal. It's revolutionizing arthritis management in dogs with minimal side effects. Solensia (frunevetmab): the equivalent for cats. These monoclonal antibody treatments are changing the game for pets with chronic joint pain.
- Your pet is slowing down or reluctant to exercise
- Stiffness after rest, especially in the morning
- Difficulty jumping, climbing stairs, or getting in the car
- Limping or favoring a leg
- Reduced grooming in cats
- You want to discuss pain management options
RVC
RVC offers comprehensive arthritis management including Librela/Solensia injections, NSAIDs, joint supplements, laser therapy, and weight management programs. Call +853 6677 6611.
+853 6677 6611