Arthritis in Pets
Arthritis is one of the most common conditions affecting older pets, causing joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. At Central Animal Hospital, we help pets stay comfortable and active with a personalized approach to arthritis management.
Recognizing the Signs of Arthritis
Arthritis develops gradually, so early signs can be easy to miss. Watch for slower movement getting up from rest, reluctance to jump onto furniture or climb stairs, stiffness after sleeping, limping, or a noticeable decrease in activity level. Cats may show more subtle signs, such as reduced grooming or avoiding the litter box if it requires climbing.
How We Diagnose and Treat Arthritis
Our veterinarians start with a thorough wellness exam to assess joint mobility and pain level, often supported by digital radiology to evaluate the joints more closely. From there, we build a treatment plan tailored to your pet, which may include pain management medications, glucosamine supplements, and cold laser therapy to reduce inflammation and support mobility.
Weight also plays a major role in joint health, so our team may recommend nutritional counseling to help your pet reach or maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress on their joints.
Living Comfortably With Arthritis
While arthritis can’t always be cured, it can almost always be managed to keep your pet comfortable and active. Many pets do very well for years with the right combination of medication, weight management, and supportive therapies. If you’ve noticed your pet slowing down or seeming stiff, please contact us today at (561) 391-8787 to schedule an evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Arthritis
What are the early signs of arthritis in pets?
Early signs include stiffness after resting, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, limping, and a general decrease in activity level.
At what age do pets typically develop arthritis?
Arthritis is most common in senior pets, though larger breeds and pets with prior joint injuries can develop symptoms earlier in life.
Can arthritis be cured?
Arthritis usually can’t be cured, but it can be effectively managed with medication, weight control, and supportive therapies to keep pets comfortable.
Does weight affect a pet’s arthritis symptoms?
Yes. Excess weight puts additional strain on joints, so maintaining a healthy weight is an important part of managing arthritis.
Is cold laser therapy helpful for arthritis?
Yes. Cold laser therapy can help reduce inflammation and support mobility as part of a broader arthritis treatment plan.
How is arthritis diagnosed in pets?
Arthritis is typically diagnosed through a physical exam and digital radiology to evaluate the affected joints.
Help Your Pet Move Comfortably Again
Schedule an arthritis evaluation at Central Animal Hospital in Boca Raton, FL.