Arthritis - The Symptoms and How To Avoid Its Onset
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Old age is not the only cause.
Surprising but true. Arthritis is a common condition in seniors pets but why do some pets seem to be more susceptible and affected earlier than others?
"She seems slower nowadays. During our walks, she seems to be exerting more effort to keep up."
"He used to jump up on the sofa for a cuddle when my dad is watching the TV, but now he needs us to carry him."
If you can identify with some of these common things we hear from our patients, your pet may be due (or overdue) for a thorough check with your vet.
What exactly is Arthritis?
There are two kinds of arthritis.
First, osteoarthritis aka DJD (Degenerative Joint Disease) is a chronic condition. Specifically, it is a gradual deterioration or thinning of the cartilage found between your pet's joints. This leads to painful issues such as inflammation, fluid build-up, bone spurs (growths).
Common affected joints are in the elbows, knees, hips and lower back. And yes, old age is a common denominator here. That'e because wear and tear in the cartilage over time increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
There is another type of arthritis which is the result of inflammation. This type of arthritis can happen to dogs of any age and are often congenital. This means the dog has inherited the condition and can pass it down to his or her offsprings.
The Symptoms
It hurts to get off the couch sometimes.
If your pet seems to be...
Slowing down overall
Limping intermittently or showing reliance on one or more legs
Less interested in activities such as walks and games
Taking a longer time to get up after nap or laying down
More reluctant to get in/out of the car or climb up/down stairs
These symptoms generally show that osteoarthritis may have started to cause your pet to have some discomfort in mobility.
The condition may be more advanced and painful if your pet starts to exhibit the following symptoms:
Lethargy
General signs of distress e.g. pacing, panting and restlessness or shifts around more frequently
Whimpers when walking or moving
Loss of appetite
The Causes
As mentioned, age is merely one factor. Other factors contribute to determine if your pet may be more at risk of developing arthritis or how severe this can affect him.
1) Genetic Predisposition
Breeds like German Shepherds are more prone to develop arthritis
Some dog breeds are more likely to develop joint problems (including arthritis) than others.
Larger and popular breeds in Singapore e.g. Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds are more prone to arthritis.
Dogs which are bred for in-demand 'cute' physical characteristics such as Dachshunds are also genetically at higher risk.
2) Weight
An overweight pet adds more strain (and likely injury) to his joints and ligaments.
It is a vicious cycle too. A pet suffering from joint discomfort due to degeneration will be less active, which results in further weight gain. This is why diet management is so important as prevention and treatment of arthritis.
Use these handy charts to do a quick check on your cat or dog and see if he may be overweight.
3) Medical History
If your pet has experienced trauma or injuries such as dislocations, broken bones or ligament tears, he may be more susceptible to arthritis.
Prolonged stress on joints due to contact with unsuitable floorings and surfaces can also have an effect. For example, smooth marble flooring are hazardous because they are too slippery for pets.
"I have a senior dog patient whose arthritic pain got worse because of a change of home environment. The smooth marble flooring made it hard for her to maintain a good grip while walking and running, resulting in greater strain on her joints." - Dr Arman Chen, Veterinary Surgeon & Practice Manager