Yes, just like us, your cat or dog can get arthritis. Your special companions could also experience joint pain from this condition. While arthritis is common in both dogs and cats, the disease may be untreated and undiagnosed which is why it’s useful to visit your local animal clinic for an annual check-up.
Why Arthritis Affect Dogs and Cats
Pets can get arthritis for various reasons, but the most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease happens when the cartilage that serves as a cushion between bones becomes damaged or worn out. Without adequate cushioning, it is harder for pets to move their joints without feeling pain.
Some Pets Face Greater Risks of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is common among older dogs and cats. Obese pets, heavy and large dogs, athletic dogs, working dogs, and dogs with Cushing’s Disease or diabetes are more likely to develop this condition.
Overweight and older pets are more at risk for osteoarthritis, but this condition may also be a developmental problem that can occur even in young dogs. Unlike senior pets, younger dogs tend to make up for their discomfort by adapting their posture, so it’s harder to recognize an issue with their joints.
Bacteria and Immune Responses May Trigger Arthritis
While osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, your pets may also develop septic arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Septic arthritis causes painful inflammation on one or more joints due to bacteria or another agent. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is due to an autoimmune response that degrades the cartilage.
When your special companion has arthritis, you need to make adjustments to anticipate, prevent, and relieve pain. Take your furry companion to the local veterinary care center to customize a pain management plan to meet your and your pet’s unique needs. Schedule an appointment with qualified veterinarians at Eagle Animal Hospital & Pet Resort with three locations in Kansas City – Riverside, Tiffany Springs, and Liberty – to know what you can do to reduce your pet’s discomfort.