Pet Arthritis FAQs

Getting older is a normal part of life for humans and animals. Pet arthritis is a medical condition often associated with the aging process. It can be treated with several options available today. At the Cordova Station Animal Hospital in Cordova, TN, our staff can develop a treatment program that helps your pet through the pain and discomfort.

Our clinic provides answers to the most frequently asked questions on pet arthritis. 

What Is Pet Arthritis?

Pet arthritis is a progressive degenerative condition of the joints. It causes the cartilage to break down by forcing adjacent bones to rub against one another. Over time, the disease will cause your pet to have decreased joint movement and chronic pain. Eventually, bone spurs will develop and other changes to the shape of the joint occur.

What Causes Pet Arthritis?

Two of the more common causes of pet arthritis are age and genetics. As your furry friend gets older, they become more susceptible to injuring themselves. Other contributing factors to contracting pet arthritis include malformation of the joints, obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia. Usually, arthritis will begin forming in the hips and legs. Often, pets will become more prone to infections after being diagnosed with the disease. 

What Are the Symptoms of Pet Arthritis?

The symptoms of pet arthritis are very similar to a human being suffering from the same disease. Unfortunately, it is more difficult to diagnose arthritis in pets because they mask their pain so well. It is a natural-born instinct in animals, as they do not like to show any sign of weakness to an oncoming predator.

Some of the more common symptoms of pet arthritis include your pet moving slower around the home or taking longer to sit down on the floor. Plus, watch out for significant weight gain in a short timeframe. And your pet's behavior may become moody. All are indicating signs that your pet might have the beginning stage of arthritis. 

How Is Pet Arthritis Treated?

Unfortunately, pet arthritis is not curable, even if detected early on. But several treatment plans are available to reduce the symptoms. First, you must keep your pet moving about during the day. It helps to keep their blood flowing to the joints. A veterinarian can create an exercise program tailored to treat your pet's condition. The goal is to keep their muscles strong, which offers stabilization and less inflammation in the joints. 

Pet Arthritis Help with Our Veterinarian

Schedule an appointment with Cordova Station Animal Hospital in Cordova, TN, if your pet shows signs of arthritis. Our veterinarians are dedicated to providing the best care for your pet to have a healthy, pain-free life. Call our office today at (901) 753-3539.