Osteoarthritis in Dogs and Cats: Spotting and Managing Joint Pain

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It happens when the cartilage — the smooth, cushioning tissue that covers the ends of your bones inside a joint — gradually wears down over time. As this “cushion” thins, the joint can become painful, stiff, and movement is more difficult.

OA develops from a gamut of factors over a pet’s lifetime – from normal wear-and-tear (aging) of joints to trauma that damaged the joint.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Often, it can be suspected just given your dog’s presenting signs and signalment such as age or breed. OA can also be diagnosed via orthopaedic examination and x-rays, among other tests.

Common signs	Lameness/limping. Difficulty getting up/lying down, stiffness after rising, licking/biting certain joints, or lagging behind on walks. Reluctance to jump/play or use litter box. Swelling of joints, joint “creaking”. Less grooming. Cats are masters of disguise; signs may be VERY vague.
Where	Any joint but common areas are knees, hips, spine, and limbs.
Who is affected	All ages and breeds and sexes possible (some more prone) but more commonly in middle-aged to senior pets.

Treatment

It is a condition that cannot be cured. Clinical signs may come and go, which is why owners often say that their pet is only limping or uncomfortable sometimes. Treatment options may include:

• Weight management (to reduce joint stress)

• Exercise (including physical rehabilitation and alternative therapies eg: acupuncture, lasers)

• Medications and supplements (for inflammation and pain)

• Environmental changes (see below)

At-Home Care Ideas

• Add ramps or steps to help your furry friend access furniture or their favourite spots.

• Non-slip rugs/carpets/flooring and trimmed nails help to improve grip.

• Walks on softer surfaces eg: grass is good. Avoid unstable surfaces eg: sand.

• Elevate food and water bowls to reduce strain.

• Consider orthopaedic or memory foam beds for improved support.

• Keep them warm.

Going Forward

If your pet has been suspected to have or diagnosed with arthritis, we advise reviewing with your vet every 6-12 months, or earlier if you notice new signs. With OA, we often use a multi-modal approach and may need to add new therapies to the plan with time. While there is no cure for OA, there are certainly a myriad of options to maintain or improve your pet’s quality of life.

In cases of sudden lameness/pain/collapse or trauma, please go immediately to your nearest 24-hour vet emergency hospital.

Willow Vet Clinic contact
Phone: 6970 5686
E-mail: hello@willowvets.sg (non-urgent enquiries only)

DISCLAIMER: THIS HANDOUT IS MEANT FOR GENERAL EDUCATION PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE.