Arthritis in Pets
Arthritis in pets is common, yet it is a difficult disorder to manage.
A recent pet owner remarked that his dog seemed to be moving a little slower recently and was more careful about lying down and getting up.
So, the veterinarian decided to take some x-rays. The results of the x-rays were telling. The dog, having only been displaying the most subtle signs of discomfort, actually had an advanced deterioration of both of the hip joints.
This is called coxofemoral osteoarthritis… associated with early bony changes of the lower spine. Pets that show only minimal signs of arthritic deterioration in the joints frequently display definite signs of lameness, discomfort, and restricted mobility.
There are many medications available for arthritis in pets designed to relieve the pain that your pet may be experiencing. Of course, you and your veterinarian should first discuss the pros and cons of any medication your pet is taking, especially those that would be taken over a long period of time on a regular basis.
Needless to say, you want to immediately discontinue the use of any medication as soon as you suspect any type of adverse reaction occurring with your pet. As with any type of medication, make certain that you have a thorough discussion to your veterinarian.
Arthritis Treatments
There are, in fact, many safe and effective medications for arthritis in pets that are available.
One of the most prescribed by veterinarians is a product made by Pfizer Animal Health called Rimadyl.
Another medication that shows potential as a discomfort relieving medication is Deramaxx. Deramaxx is from Novartis Animal Health. This medicine has been on the market since about 2002. Initially the approval for Deramaxx was for postoperative pain in pets but, since it worked so well, it has now been approved for the use of lessening the pain and inflammation of arthritis in pets. Additionally, it is classified as a non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
If your pet is considered to be overweight, many times simply reducing your pet’s weight to an optimal level can be enough of a treatment to affect noticeable changes in your pet’s activity and mobility.
Arthritis Exercise also plays an important role in your pet’s overall health and mobility. A regular routine of exercise helps maintain and even improve joint movement and flexibility.
And, of course, after a bit of exercise, a nice loving massage can be a good tool to use to help mitigate the arthritis in pets aches and pain of pet’s arthritis pain.