Arthritis Services for Pets

Have you noticed your pet moving slower or having difficulty getting up lately? If you answered yes, then your pet may be suffering from arthritis. The disease can affect anywhere from the legs, hips, and back, making everyday movements painful. As a pet owner, you can look out for signs early, and if your pet is diagnosed, then you can work with your veterinarian to provide comfort for your furry companion. Doing so will ensure your pet is living the best, most pain-free life possible. Call us at 416-444-7387 if you think your pet has arthritis!

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition that often affects senior pets, but can still happen to pets of all ages. This disease occurs when the cartilage within a joint becomes damaged, removing the cushion that allows the bones to move over or around each other without pain. The most common form is osteoarthritis, which involves inflammation and degeneration of one or more joints. In some cases when it becomes severe, your furry family member may start experiencing discomfort and pain. 

What causes arthritis in my pet?

There is no single cause and it's not just because your pet is aging. There are many factors that can lead to an arthritis diagnosis:

• Body conformation, condition, and weight
• Abnormal joint development
• Activity and injury history
• Orthopedic surgery
• Nutritional history

Can arthritis be prevented?

Letting your pet grow slowly, then maintaining a lean body condition throughout growth, and into adulthood will be the most effective way to prevent arthritis. However, growth abnormalities and injuries are hard to predict, so arthritis cannot always be prevented.