Arthritis can be a major source of health problems for our pets. It affects their mobility, causes pain and can cause them to gain weight. The trick is not only helping them manage the symptoms but also preventing the onset of symptoms. This article explores how to prevent and manage arthritis in pets.

Food supplements

There are a number of food supplements available for dogs and cats which support joint health. The most well-known one is glucosamine. If your vet diagnoses your pet with arthritis, it is worth discussing this with them. In addition to the supplement, you can also provide your pet with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help support their joints. You can either buy these in supplement form or include enough fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel, etc.) in their diet to make up their recommended daily intake of these.

Pain relief

As we know, one of the most common symptoms of arthritis is pain. It is important to help your pet manage this pain. There are two main classes of pain relief that you can use: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids. These types of medication are available from your vet and will need to be prescribed according to the severity of the symptoms your dog or cat is experiencing. Other forms of pain relief include acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), laser therapy, massage, relaxation therapy, heat therapy, and cold therapy.

Physiotherapy

One of the best ways to help pets with arthritis is through physiotherapy. The exercises encourage movement and strengthen muscles. This helps to restore mobility as well as to improve your pet's overall quality of life. The exercises are designed to help reduce pain, increase flexibility, and enhance the range of motion. They should be carried out by a trained professional, but you can assist with them at home.

Weight management

Keeping an arthritic pet slim will make their joints less painful as there will be less weight for them to support. You can manage your pet's weight by keeping an eye on how much they eat, providing food in different styles such as shreds or kibble rather than canned food, and exercising your pet regularly.

If you have any questions about managing your pet's arthritis, speak to veterinary services. They will be happy to provide you with all of the help and assistance you need to make sure your pet is happy and healthy.