Arthritis is a common condition affecting the joints of companion animals. It causes inflammation and pain in the joints which can severely impact mobility and quality of life for pets. As companion animals are living longer due to improved healthcare, arthritis is becoming a growing concern among veterinarians.

Causes and Types of Arthritis in Pets

Arthritis has multiple underlying causes in pets. The degeneration and breakdown of joint cartilage is a natural aging process but can be accelerated due to injury, excess weight or genetics. This leads to different types of Companion Animal Arthritis:

- Osteoarthritis: The most common type seen in aging dogs and cats. It happens when the protective cartilage at the end of bones wears down over time. Loss of cartilage causes bones to rub against each other, causing pain, swelling and reduced mobility.

- Inflammatory arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis are rare in pets but can affect joints by causing the immune system to attack synovial tissues.

- Post-traumatic arthritis: Develops after damage or injury to joints from fractures, ligament tears or dislocations. It is seen in pets who engage in high-impact sports.

Risk Factors for Arthritis in Dogs and Cats

Certain factors increase the likelihood of pets developing arthritis:

- Age: Risk increases as pets get older, with dogs often showing signs from 7-8 years and cats from 12-14 years.

- Breed: Large and giant breeds have increased risk due to their weight putting more pressure on joints.

- Obesity: Excess weight places extra stress on joints, hastening wear and tear.

- Injury history: Past trauma, fractures or surgeries involving joints can trigger arthritis.

- Gender: Male dogs have higher risk than females for unclear reasons.

Signs that Your Pet May Have Arthritis

The classic signs pet owners notice are stiffness and lameness that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Other signs may include:

- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs or exercise
- Shifting weight off an affected leg
- Crying out or growling if joint is touched or moved
- Difficulty getting comfortable, rising or lying down
- Licking, chewing or biting at sore joints

Diagnosing Arthritis in Dogs and Cats

Veterinarians diagnose arthritis based on the pet's medical history, physical exam findings and diagnostic tests:

- Physical exam focuses on joint mobility, pain response and thickening around joints.

- X-rays can reveal bone spurs, loss of joint space and other degenerative changes.

- Advanced imaging like CT or MRI provides more detail on soft tissues.

- Joint fluid analysis checks for inflammation in cases of inflammatory arthritis.

Treating Arthritis with Conventional and Alternative Therapies

Once diagnosed, treatment focuses on managing pain and inflammation to improve mobility and quality of life. Approaches may include:

- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, joint supplements, nutraceuticals.

- Weight management: Diet and exercise help reduce excess stress on joints.

- Physical rehabilitation: Therapy improves muscle strength, flexibility.

- Alternative therapies: Acupuncture, hydrotherapy, chiropractic, laser, stem cell therapies showing promise.

- Joint surgery: Considered for younger, high-functioning pets with isolated joint problems.

- Assistive devices: Ramps, stairs, harnesses aid mobility when advanced.

- Nutraceuticals: Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, botanicals, collagen supplements are commonly used.

- Lifestyle changes: Providing soft beds, ramps, carrying pets supplements medical care.

No single treatment works best for every pet - therapies must be tailored based on severity and individual needs. With early treatment and management, arthritis need not slow pets down. Vigilance helps give them relief and a good quality of remaining life.

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