our advice: ASK DR. CATE
Vet Rap by
Dr. Ryan Cate
Putting the “spring” Back into Your
Older Pet’s Step
Question:
Dear Dr. Cate:
I have an older Springer Spaniel and our vet said
he was suffering from arthritis in his joints. What is
available that might help him get the spring back
in his step?
Answer:
Many older animals, like people, suffer with osteo-
arthritis. This type is the most common form of
arthritis, affecting a quarter of animals, according
to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.
Arthritis occurs when the cartilage that covers and
protects the ends of bones within the joint capsule
begins to wear away. Some arthritis in animals
occurs because of other orthopedic problems, like
hip or elbow dysplasia or ligament disease within
multiple joints. However, some is of an unknown
cause, which affects the smaller joints in older
dogs. Like people, the issue can be exacerbated by
genetics, age, bodyweight, obesity, gender, exer-
cise and diet.
Because the signs are nonspecific and could be
caused by a number of things, owners should look
for impairment in your animal’s overall activity
level. If your pet begins to be reluctant to exer-
cise, has decreased its overall activity, suffers from
stiffness or lameness, has a change in its gait, or
unable to jump as it did before, it might be caused
by osteoarthritis. Some animals also present with
pain which can cause behavior changes or general
signs of discomfort.
The diagnosis is made from both a physi-
cal exam and a type of diagnostic imaging, not
limited to radiology (x-ray), MRIs or CT scan. It
also depends on the severity of the disease and the
pain your pet is experiencing. First, your vet will
do a physical exam to determine the affected joint
or joints, moving on to diagnostic imaging to show
tissue damage and changes in joints. The type of
diagnostic imaging will be determined where the
arthritis is located on your pet.
Treatment for osteoarthritis is going to depend
on where the pain and inflammation is occur-
ring, as well as the severity of the symptoms.
Medication is most likely going to be a part of
the treatment plan. Some of the approaches can
include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDs), pain medication, joint supplements,
injections into the joints, and even surgical
management. All medication should be used as
directed by your veterinarian because severe side
effects, including death, can be associated with
misuse.
Other improvements can be seen by weight
control for overweight animals, and activity modi-
fication that limits running and jumping that can
cause more inflammation and pain.
Even with treatment, osteoarthritis is a progres-
sive disease and will only worsen with time. The
treatments listed above can make the your pet
more comfortable and have a great quality of life
for years to come following the diagnosis of osteo-
arthritis.
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