ARTHRITIS

While arthritis can affect dogs and cats of any age, we usually think of it as a disease of the geriatric animal. There is no cure for arthritis, but veterinarians can provide a variety of treatment choices to allow pets to live a reasonably active and comfortable life. Early diagnosis is of the utmost importance in finding effective medical treatment. Pet owners are the best equipped to notice the day to day changes and first signs of this crippling disease.

If your pet takes a long time to get to its feet, is unable to jump or climb these may be signs that arthritis could be affecting your pet. In such cases, you should make an appointment with your veterinarian. Keep track of the arthritic signs you've noticed and the conditions under which they occur (before or after exercise, for example), and the approximate time the symptoms were first noticed. Because most instances of arthritis are degenerative and arise from joint imperfections, make a note of any developmental joint defects such as hip dysplasia or accidents your pet may have had. Occasionally, other types of arthritis occur, arising from a systemic ailment such as Lyme Disease or rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, it is also important to take note if your pet has shown any signs of illness such as appetite loss.

Veterinarians generally advise a three-pronged approach to the medical management of arthritis. This includes exercise moderation, weight control, and anti-inflammatory medication. While not enough exercise can cause an arthritic animal to become stiff and sore, too much can lead to pain. Weight control is crucial because excess weight can place undue stress upon the joints, thereby accelerating joint degeneration. If you have an overweight animal, consult your vet about a suitable weight loss program. Exercise moderation and weight control keep most arthritic pets comfortable, however, some days can be worse than others, and in such instances, your vet may prescribe an anti- inflammatory medication until the acute inflammation has subsided. This is usually achieved in a couple of days. Never give your pet an over-the- counter pain medication without first speaking with your veterinarian. Many of these medications can cause gastrointestinal upset.

When medical treatments fail to adequately relieve arthritis pain, surgery may be the next option. For example, when bone or cartilage fragments are in the joint, the surgeon can remove them to decrease inflammation. This may not halt the deterioration, since damage has already been done. However, it may slow it down considerably. In some situations, an achy joint may have to be removed. The best candidates for this surgery are small dogs and well-muscled large dogs since they are better equipped to support their weight without the joint. Hip replacement surgery is another alternative as is, in some instances, joint fusion.

Additionally, there are many supplements available but the lack of regulation of these product's ingredients can be a cause of concern. Consult with your veterinarian about these treatments, not your neighborhood health food store or pet food chain as they are not qualified to make proper recommendations. Currently there are many treatments available for the management of arthritis. Use your discretion. What works for one disease may not work for another. Consult with your veterinarian before giving anything to your pet. And, while your veterinarian is there to help both you and your pet several proven alternative therapies are available. These alternative therapies include acupuncture and chiropractic care and, with proper training, are really of value. If diagnosed with arthritis, the key to helping your pet live comfortable is to catch the disease in its early stages. This is best and most easily accomplished by paying close attention to your pet's activities and movements.