Arthritis affects your furry friends’ joints, progressing over time to affect their quality of life. It’s the most common cause of chronic pain in pets as they age. Caused by the wear and tear of joints, your pet might be masking any pain or discomfort they are experiencing. If you’re concerned about your pet potentially having arthritis, please contact our team at 519-624-9760.

What are the signs of arthritis?

It can sometimes be difficult for pet owners to distinguish between the signs of arthritis, since typical ones are often subtle. It’s important to be mindful of the following, especially if you notice them getting worse over time:

• Changes in behaviour like unexplained aggression
• Difficulty getting up or lying down
• Reluctance to go up or down stairs
• Limping
• “Slowing down”
• “Getting older”

My pet has a few signs. How do you diagnose arthritis?

You can book an appointment with our veterinary team to assess whether or not your pet has arthritis. We use a variety of techniques to ensure we have the most accurate diagnosis. For example, we might take an X-ray of your pet’s joints. This helps us see if their joints appear roughened or deformed, which can be a sign of arthritis. In addition, orthopedic exams help to examine how your pet’s joints are functioning as well as if they have any pain. Also, you are one of the most valuable resources in determining your pet’s arthritis diagnosis. Feel free to share any information about your pet’s history like injuries or activity level as well as any observation you’ve made about their behaviour at home.

How is arthritis in pets treated?

Arthritis is treated with Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID), which helps reduce pain and joint inflammation. Our veterinary team will discuss any complementary treatment we think will pair well with these drugs to support your pet. These might include incorporating Omega 3 Fatty Acids into their diet as well as scheduling regular appointments for physiotherapy and rehabilitation.