Sept 16th 9.00pm Rebecca Longmore

How to prevent Arthritis in pets: Tips and strategies.

Arthritis can be a painful and debilitating condition. Putting in the right preventative measures can help your pet live a long happy active life. 

Understanding arthritis in pets

Arthritis is a common condition in pets that affects the joints of pets, leading to pain, inflammation and reduced mobility. It can occur in pets of all ages, but is more prevalent in older animals. Understanding the early signs of arthritis such as limping, difficulty getting up and climbing stairs can help in early intervention. 

Different types of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can affect pets, each with its own set of causes and symptoms. Osteoarthritis is often due to wear and tear in the joints, while rheumatoid arthritis is an auto immune disorder. Knowing the type of arthritis you pet has can help tailoring the right treatment plan.

Importance of the right balanced diet for your pet

A balanced diet is crucial in maintaining your pets joint health.Nutrient rich foods such as those high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins such as our fish treats, can help reduce inflammation and support joint health. Including lean proteins such as our Rabbit burgers and wholegrain in your pets diet can also contribute to your pets overall health and weight management. 

Regular exercise and its benefits

Regular exercise is essential in keeping your pets joints flexible and their muscles strong. Low impact activities such as walking, swimming, and gentle play will help maintain joint health with our putting too much stress on the joints. 

Avoiding high intensity exercise such as ball catching, running, and jumping. These activities put too much pressure on the joints making their condition worse. 

Supplements and medications

Supplements are essential at maintaining and joint health. Supporting and preventing arthritis in pets. Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and msm are commonly used to help maintain cartilage and reduce inflammation. Some natural sources of these that can be used to supplement your pets diet are Chicken Feet and Trachea. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil supplements such as Salmon oil or Fish skin treats can help reducing joint pain and stiffness. 

In some cases medication may be necessary to manage pain and inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed to pets with arthritis, but it is important to keep them under veterinary supervision due to potential side effects. Always consult your vet before choosing any medications or supplements that do not come from a food source. 

Routine veterinary check-ups

Regular vet check-ups are vital for early detection and management of arthritis in pets. During these visits, your vet can access your pets joint health, recommend appropriate treatments, and adjust treatment plans as needed. 

Preventative care including vaccinations, dental health, and parasite control, also plays a role in overall health and well-being and can indirectly impact joint health. Keeping up with routine veterinary care ensures that any signs of arthritis are caught early and managed effectively, allowing you pet to lead a  more comfortable life.