Dear Spring Oaks’ Family:
The May topic of the month is Osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis (also called Degenerative Joint Disease) is very common in dogs and cats. This condition occurs when the protective layers cushioning joints called cartilage become damaged. This damage can lead to inflammation and pain. Most osteoarthritis in dogs and cats does not just happen as the pet ages but usually is secondary to unstable joints from injury or developmental problems as the pet is growing. Signs your pet may be suffering from osteoarthritis are limping, difficulty climbing steps, trouble standing or sitting, lagging behind on walks, difficulty climbing in or out of cars, difficulty squatting to urinate or defecate, or in the case of cats, difficulty jumping.
We diagnose osteoarthritis by performing a complete physical examination including moving and feeling the neck, spine, and all the bones and joints of the limbs. We look for crepitus (a gritty or popping feeling to the joints) and reactions of discomfort. If we find an area of pain or crepitus we will take a radiograph (x-ray) of the affected area. Radiographs may show bone spurs (osteophytes), fluid in the joint, subluxations, or incongruity of the joint.
We recommend multimodal (more than one method) treatment of arthritis. This includes:
- Weight Loss – extra weight causes strain on the limbs and joints
- Chondroprotectants (protection of cartilage)
- An Omega-3 Fatty Acid rich diet
- Anti-inflammatories
- Other pain control
At Spring Oaks we can help with weight loss strategies by formulating a nutritional plan for your pet and adjusting that plan based on frequent follow ups. We offer both injectable (Adequan) chondroprotectants as well as oral supplements from companies who back their products with research. For dogs with joint problems we recommend Science Diet j/d (joint diet) which contains a high level of Omega-3 Fatty Acids.
As in people, one type of anti-inflammatory medication may work better than others. Also, dogs and cats can have severe toxicities with many over the counter anti-inflammatories designed for humans such as Aleve (naproxen), Advil (ibuprofen), and especially in cats, Tylenol (acetaminophen). Please check with your veterinarian before administering anything to your pet, including Aspirin. There are specific anti-inflammatories designed for dogs and cats. To monitor your pets health while on anti-inflammatories we may recommend periodic bloodwork to check liver and kidney enzymes and white and red blood cell counts.
If you have further questions or are concerned your pet may have arthritis, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Alshouse or myself.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jim Jackson |
