Dogs and cats of any age, breed, or size can
be afflicted with this life-altering condition
AUSTIN,
Texas, July 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Thrive Pet
Healthcare, a leading veterinary care community with more than 380
hospitals in 37 states, reminds pet owners that osteoarthritis is a
common condition affecting approximately 20% of dogs over 1 year of
age and 60% of cats six years or older. While osteoarthritis is
often associated with senior pets, it can affect dogs and cats of
any age, breed, or size, causing pain that can significantly impact
their quality of life both physically and emotionally.
Osteoarthritis affects approximately 20% of
dogs over 1 year of age and 60% of cats six years or older
"Pets often hide their pain until it becomes severe," said Dr.
Christine Jurek, Medical Director of
Thrive Pet Healthcare partner TOPS Veterinary
Rehabilitation in Grayslake,
Illinois. "Annual veterinary exams are important because
veterinarians can detect subtle signs of osteoarthritis early,
allowing for treatment that can help slow the progression of the
disease."
Recognizing Osteoarthritis in Dogs vs. Cats
For pet owners, identifying signs of osteoarthritis can be
challenging. While both dogs and cats can exhibit similar symptoms
like limping, difficulty jumping, and stiffness, there are some key
differences.
- Dogs: They might show reduced activity levels, lag
behind on walks, and struggle with stairs.
- Cats: They often hide their pain and discomfort, making
it harder to detect. Watch for subtle changes like difficulty
climbing, less interest in chasing moving objects, litter box
avoidance due to entry difficulties, and changes in appetite and
sleep patterns.
"You know your pet better than anyone," said Dr. Jurek
"Veterinarians rely on pet owners to observe their pets in their
natural environment and report any changes in their behavior. This
helps them to make a more accurate diagnosis."
Keeping a log of the pet's behavior and taking videos of their
movement can be helpful to share with your veterinarian. Also look
for behavioral changes such as increased vocalization or aggression
which may indicate joint pain. These signs should not be
misinterpreted or overlooked.
Treatments for Pets with Osteoarthritis
There are a number of treatments that veterinarians use to
manage osteoarthritis pain in pets, often focusing on a multimodal
approach to improve their quality of life. Treatments may
include:
- Pain Management Therapies: Nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often the first line of
treatment for dogs and cats because they reduce inflammation and
pain in the joints. Other options include gabapentin, amantadine,
and tramadol. These medications can be used in combination to
provide better pain control.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is
crucial for pets with osteoarthritis. Carrying around excess weight
puts stress on the joints, causing pain and inflammation. Your
veterinarian can tailor a diet and exercise plan to help get your
pet back to a healthy weight.
- Physical Therapy and Low-Impact Exercise: Regular,
controlled exercise helps maintain joint mobility and muscle
strength. For dogs, this can include swimming and gentle
walks.
- Nutritional Supplements: Supplements such as glucosamine
and chondroitin can support joint health and slow the progression
of osteoarthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids also have anti-inflammatory
properties that can help manage pain.
- Environmental Modifications: Making changes at home can
help pets with osteoarthritis move around more easily and
comfortably. Some changes that can make a big difference include
adding ramps for easier access to favorite spots, installing night
lights around the home, providing extra padding and warmth in
resting areas, or, for your cat, providing a low-entry litter
box.
- Innovative Treatments: Librela™ (bedinvetmab injection)
for dogs and Solensia™ (frunevetmab injection) for cats are
FDA-approved treatments to relieve pain associated with
osteoarthritis. Your pet receives one monthly in-office dose from
your veterinarian to help them live a more comfortable, active
life.
Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate
treatments for your pet.
Invest in Your Pets' Health and Save More
To make pet healthcare more accessible and affordable, Thrive
Pet Healthcare offers the Thrive PlusTM membership
program at 185 of their primary care hospitals across the country.
With plans starting at $14.95 per
month, member pets receive unlimited free exams, $5 nail trims, and a 10% discount on services
such as diagnostic testing, dental cleanings, and spay/neuter
procedures. On average, Thrive Plus members save $300 per year per pet, with savings varying by
usage and location.
Through September 30,
participating Thrive Pet Healthcare primary care hospitals are
offering one free month of Thrive Plus membership. Also, when you
buy two doses of osteoarthritis treatment Librela or Solensia, you
get $25 off (terms apply). Thrive
Plus members get an additional 10% off each dose.
To locate a Thrive Pet Healthcare location near you, including
primary, specialty, urgent, and emergency veterinary care services,
as well as participating Thrive Plus membership hospitals, visit
www.thrivepetcare.com.
About Thrive Pet Healthcare:
Thrive Pet Healthcare is a leading veterinary service community
that uniquely delivers a continuum of care to pet families and
services to veterinary hospitals. With an industry first membership
program and more than 380 acute, primary, and specialty providers,
Thrive Pet Healthcare offers personalized, accessible care through
every stage of a pet's life and health. The veterinarian-founded
organization provides premier benefits for practice staff while
elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative
service and technology solutions. By focusing on the needs and
aspirations of veterinary care providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare is
supporting the well-being of the industry and raising the national
bar for veterinary excellence. To learn more about Thrive Pet
Healthcare, please visit www.thrivepetcare.com.
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SOURCE Thrive Pet Healthcare