Why Pets Suffer From Arthritis

There are a few different reasons why a dog or cat may suffer from an arthritic condition. Arthritis is the deterioration of joints in the body, which causes pain to occur in the affected area. When a pet is injured, the joints may not heal properly, leading to chronic arthritis. Some pets are born with arthritis due to genetics or the particular breed of animal they are. Arthritis often inflicts elderly pets as the joints tend to break down during the later stages of a pet’s life.

Signs That a Pet May Have Arthritis

The most common signs of arthritis in pets are constant limping and crying when walking. If you notice your pet is not walking as quickly as they used to, if they no longer run, or if they avoid climbing, it may be because they feel discomfort when trying to conduct one of these activities. Monitor your pet’s behavior and bring them to our St. Louis veterinarians if your pet is taking slower strides and is avoiding any exercise. A pet with arthritis may bite or scratch at the affected areas of the body to try to stop pain from occurring.

What Our Vet Does For Arthritis in Pets

Our veterinarians will conduct a full assessment of your pet’s health to determine whether your pet is inflicted with arthritis or not. This includes testing each of your pet’s extremities to check on their range of motion. Your pet may need x-rays or an MRI to check on bones and muscles. If your dog or cat is indeed dealing with arthritis, medication can be prescribed to help alleviate discomfort. Our vets will also discuss lifestyle changes to help your pet cope with this condition.