Arthritis in pets is quite common, and it can be debilitating for your animal if you don’t take the appropriate measures. While there is no cure for arthritis, proper management can help your pet live a happier life. At Bluegrass Animal Hospital in Knoxville, TN, our veterinary team will diagnose and help you manage arthritis in your pet.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis a degenerative disease that results from the deterioration of the cartilage. Healthy cartilage allows the joints to move within a full range of motion. However, when this cartilage wears down due to age, trauma, and other causes, it loses its protective ability, causing joint pain and stiffness. While arthritis can affect any joint, it’s more common in the limbs and lower spine.
Risk Factors for Arthritis
All pets can suffer from arthritis, especially as they advance in age. However, the below factors are likely to cause arthritis.
- Genetic factors, making certain breeds of pets susceptible to arthritis
- Obesity
- Poor nutrition
- Previous diagnosis of elbow dysplasia
- Age
- Trauma, such as ligament tears and fractures
- Repetitive muscle use, like athletic activities
- Infections affecting the joints, like Lyme disease
If your pet is predisposed to these risk factors, it’s critical to pay attention to the below signs of arthritis to ensure your pet gets early treatment from our veterinarian.
Signs of Arthritis in Pets
Symptoms of arthritis in pets develop slowly, then worsen over time. In fact, it’s not uncommon to miss the symptoms of arthritis at early stages because your pet shows little to no discomfort. However, as the disease progresses, the symptoms become more pronounced, and you are likely to notice that something is amiss with your pet. Here are the common symptoms of arthritis in pets.
- Difficulty getting up while sitting or lying down
- Limping or tenderness while moving
- Difficulty climbing stairs
- Inactivity, including excessive sleeping
- Losing interest in activities that involve walking
- Behavioral changes, including increased irritability
Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarian in Knoxville, TN
If you notice symptoms of arthritis in your pet, visit our veterinarian right away. At Bluegrass Animal Hospital in Knoxville, TN, we provide treatment and management options for arthritis in pets. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
