As our pets age, they may have to deal with some of the same infirmities that we humans face as we grow older. Just because the body may not move as fast or as easily as before, your furry companion is still your best friend!
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As your pet ages, you may notice it doesn’t run and play like it did in the past. You may think your furry friend is just slowing down and showing signs of age. In fact, your dog – or cat – may have arthritis. Just like humans, arthritis can be painful for pets and make it more difficult to move and do the things it used to do.
Some larger dog breeds are prone to arthritis, but it can develop in almost any breed, or even in mixed breeds. It can be caused by an injury, an infection, obesity or just getting older. Cats seem especially susceptible to arthritis as they age, so a feline friend that is ten years old or more is likely to experience some discomfort from arthritis.
There is no cure for arthritis, but there are various courses of treatment that might lessen your pet’s pain and help it to stay more active. Your veterinarian can work with you to develop a plan that would work best for your dog or cat. If your pet is too chubby, a weight loss program would be a good start. There are medications to reduce inflammation in an animal’s joints, painkillers, even antibiotics that can be prescribed to lessen your best friend’s pain and make it feel better. Remember never to give your pet medicine prescribed for humans without clearing it with your vet.
Other things you can do for your arthritic friend include low impact exercise. A soft bed can support an achy body. Raising food and water bowls a little higher can make it easier on that arthritic back and neck. For an animal that is not so agile it can be hard to navigate on tile, linoleum or hardwood; cover slippery floors with carpet or rugs to help your pet feel more secure.
Speaking of not being very agile, put a ramp next to a favorite chair or your bed to allow access for your four-footed buddy who can’t quite jump up that high any more. A friend of mine added some steps next to her bed so her cat could continue to snuggle through the night.
Working with your veterinarian, and using some common sense to make life easier for your animal companion, may not eliminate the effects of arthritis, but it may make life easier and, as a result, more enjoyable for both of you, when you’re speaking of pets.
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