As our pets grow older, it’s natural for their pace to slow, but not all changes in movement are just “old age.” Osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative joint disease, is a health condition that can affect senior dogs and cats. Riverview Veterinary Center has curated this pet arthritis guide so that owners can recognize the signs of osteoarthritis early and take steps towards managing their pet’s comfort. 

What Does It Mean When a Pet Has Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, which leads to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. This kind of arthritis in pets typically develops gradually over time and can affect one or more joints, including hips, shoulders, and elbows. Though age is a common risk factor, OA can result from past injuries, excess weight, or genetic joint conditions.

Common Signs of Arthritis in Senior Pets

Because pets often adapt to discomfort, signs of OA may go unnoticed at first. Look for subtle but telling changes in behavior or movement, such as:

• Trouble rising or lying down
• Limping or stiffness, especially after rest
• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or go on walks
• Sleeping more and playing less
• Licking or chewing at painful joints
• Irritability when touched near affected areas

If your pet is showing any of these signs, contact their veterinarian. A veterinary team will use a combination of physical exams and diagnostics to assess your pet’s joint health. An osteoarthritis exam may include gait assessments and X-rays to evaluate joint structure and rule out other causes of discomfort. Once diagnosed, your vet will create an initial OA treatment plan.

Managing Osteoarthritis in Senior Pets

While OA cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively to reduce pain and improve your pet’s quality of life. Treatment options for pet osteoarthritis in dogs or cats may include:

• Anti-inflammatory Medications: Can provide significant relief by reducing inflammation and joint pain.
• Therapeutic Injections: OA injectable treatments can target joint pain directly.
• Joint Supplements: Support cartilage health and joint lubrication.
• Weight Management: Reducing excess weight takes pressure off joints and slows the progression of arthritis.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Simple changes, like non-slip flooring, ramps, and modified exercise routines, can make a big difference in day-to-day comfort.

Senior pets deserve the same joy and comfort they have given us for years. They can get relief from arthritis with science-backed treatments and a personalized care approach that evolves depending on how your pet responds to their osteoarthritis treatment.

Receive Osteoarthritis Treatments for Your Pet in St. Clair, MI

Osteoarthritis may be common in senior pets, but it doesn’t have to slow them down. With early recognition and proactive care, your pet can stay active and content in their later years. Let Riverview Veterinary Center help you make that possible. Noticing signs of stiffness or slowing down in your senior pet? Schedule an appointment for a pet arthritis screening at Riverview Veterinary Center today, serving the St. Clair, MI and Marysville, Marine City, and surrounding communities.