Our pets are more likely to suffer from arthritis during the colder weather so now is a great time for an arthritis check with us. Most of the signs of arthritis are subtle and will sneak up on your pet over many years. You may not even realise that your pet is in pain.

Arthritis is caused by the wearing down of the smooth cartilage that covers the bones at the end of a joint. Usually this cartilage helps joints move freely but as time goes by, the ends of the bones become exposed and rub together. Ouch! You can imagine this causes your pet considerable pain.

Your pet won’t necessarily limp. Some of the more subtle signs to watch out for include:

Dogs:

• Might have trouble jumping into the car or up on the couch
• Will be stiff and sore when getting going – especially in the morning or after lying down
• May show behaviour changes such as being grumpy when touched on the back

Cats:

• Will be hesitant to jump up or down from your lap or from the furniture
• Might land ungracefully (in a heap!) when jumping down
• Will become reluctant to climb the back fence or climb trees
• Sometimes have a scruffy or matted coat as they are no longer able to groom comfortably

Don’t be tempted to put these changes down to ‘he’s just getting old’ as your pet may be in significant pain.

The good news is that there is plenty we can do to slow the progression of the disease and make sure your pet is pain free. Book an appointment today and we’ll establish whether your pet has arthritis.