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Management of Osteoarthritis

Background: Physical stress (ie trauma, obesity, developmental disease) to your pet’s joints results in disruption of the normal joint environment. This disruption brings about inflammation and release of enzymes which erode away the cartilage lining of the joints causing arthritis. Some common arthritic signs you will see in your pet include difficulty rising, reluctance in normal activities, lameness, lagging behind on walks among other similar signs. The following are list of treatments and therapies you can provide your pet at home.


Treatment:

  1. Glucosamine/Chondroitin Sulfate: These are supplements that work to increase the amount of fluid and lubrication in the joints allowing them to move smoother and less painful. They also protect the joint by preventing the formation of the enzymes that erode the cartilage. Their effect is controversial and may not work for every pet. Also, it may take up to 12 weeks before levels get high enough in the body and you notice an improvement. You can purchase these supplements over-the-counter or at the Patton Veterinary Hospital. 

  2. Omega-3 Fatty acids (Fish Oil): These types of fats actually help to decrease inflammation and prevent the formation of the enzymes that erode the joint cartilage. Omega-3 fatty acids can be supplemented in the form of an oral capsule or with a prescription diet (ex. Purina JM, Science Diet j/d). You should avoid supplements that also include Vitamins A and D, such as Cod Liver oil. It may take up to 12 weeks before levels get high enough in the body and you notice an improvement. Fish oil capsules are available over-the-counter and at the Patton Veterinary Hospital. The prescription diets are also available at the Patton Veterinary Hospital. Please consult with your veterinarian on dosing instructions for this supplement.

  3. Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (Ex. Adequan) : This supplement is an enzyme inhibitor that improves the resiliency and flexibility of joint as well as improving the quality of the joint fluid, reducing inflammation among other benefits. PGAG is administered as an injection under the skin twice weekly for 4 weeks by a veterinarian or veterinary technician. This supplement is safe for both dogs and cats. However, for best results this supplement should not be given to patients with end stage arthritis.

  4. Physical therapy and exercise: This is an important part in the management of your pet’s arthritis. Exercise will prevent muscle wasting and increase the range of motion in their joints. It will also promote healing of the joints and slow the progression of the disease process. Taking your pet for walks, passive range of motion exercises (Ex. Moving their leg in a bicycle motion while they are lying on their side) and swimming are all great ways in providing your pet daily exercise. If your pet is severely affected by arthritis, swimming is the best mode of exercise since it is a non-weight bearing type of exercise.

  5. Weight loss: If your pet is overweight or obese this will be the most important step in managing their arthritis. If they are not, congratulations, keep up the good work! Obesity puts extra strain on their already damaged joints. Weight loss can be accomplished with exercise and a weight loss diet. 

  6. Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs): These are medications similar to aspirin that work to decrease inflammation and pain within the affected joint. NSAIDs are only available from your veterinarian. While aspirin is similar to these medications, it will have a much higher rate of side effects than the medications provided by your veterinarian and its use should be avoided. If you notice a change in your pet’s appetite, energy level or they develop vomiting and diarrhea, you should discontinue the NSAID and contact a veterinarian. We require blood work every 6-12 months for those patients on these medications long term to make sure it is safe to continue.

  7. Laser therapy: This treatment modality uses light to stimulate healing, reduce inflammation and relieve pain in areas of inflammation such as joints with arthritis. This laser is considered ‘cold’ because it does not cut or burn the skin nor cause any discomfort at all to your pet. Often times you will notice immediate improvement in your pets arthritis after just one treatment, but the response is cumulative and requires several treatments over the course of a month for the best results. After the initial month, your pet should get maintenance treatment once every 2-4 weeks depending on your pet.

  8. Prescription diet: There are two prescription diets available Purina JM and Hill’s j/d. This food contains a high amount of fish oil and glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate, which are the joint supplements mentioned above. This diet is also a really good quality food. This diet is a good alternative to giving all the joint supplements at the same time rather than several daily capsules/pills.


The home management of osteoarthritis takes a total commitment to your pet. They will rely on you for exercise and a proper diet. The above recommendations are only guidelines and are not guaranteed to work. You will see the best results when they are all combined together. Yearly visits with your veterinarian will also be important in monitoring your pet’s arthritis. 

If you have any questions about the management of your pet’s arthritis, please call the Patton Veterinary Hospital.

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