Arthritis (degenerative joint disease) is a very common problem, especially in our aging pets. Arthritis will affect 1 out of every 4 dogs and cats, and it is a process that can begin at any time. The cause varies, it can be secondary to an old injury (broken bone or torn ligament) or related to conditions such as genetics, joint laxity (hip dysplasia), and joint incongruity (elbow dysplasia). Early diagnosis and intervention is critical because arthritis can not be reversed. While surgery may be helpful in certain conditions, it is not always necessary or affordable. Medical treatment focuses on preventing further damage and alleviating pain.
Signs of Joint Disease
Stiffness
Reluctance to get up
Reluctance to jump
Lameness
Muscle wasting
Decreased activity
Crying out in pain
Abnormal sitting/laying position
Medications
Arthritis medications are broken down into 2 categories – neutraceuticals (nutritional supplements) and pharmaceutical drugs. The neutraceuticals are slower acting, but they do help improve joint function and can help with pain relief. They may be used in both dogs and cats and can be used in conjunction with other drugs. They have not undergone rigorous testing and therefore exact doses may not be known.
Neutraceuticals
Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate – helps with rebuilding cartilage, takes several months to start working. Examples are Dasuquin and Cosequin.
Omega 3 fatty acids – fish oils have anti-inflammatory properties, may take a month to see benefit and effects are not dramatic. The EPA to DHA ratio should be 3:2.
MSM – helps with cartilage repair and inflammation.
Anti-oxidants – scavenging free radicals can retard age related changes. Examples include vitamin C, E, and SAMe.
Pharmaceutical Drugs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – suppress inflammation and help with pain. Pre-treatment bloodwork is necessary because animals with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions may not want to be on this drug. Periodic bloodwork every 6-12 months should also be done to make sure the animal is not having any side effects associated with the medication. Examples include Rimadyl, Deramaxx, and Metacam. NEVER USE A HUMAN NSAID ON A DOG OR CAT.
Corticosteroids – suppress inflammation. The side effects associated with long term use of steroids usually preclude their use, especially now because there are other better medications for dogs and cats.
Analgesics – decrease pain and used usually in conjunction with an NSAID. Examples include Tramadol, Amantadine, and Gabapentin.
Adequan – injectable cartilage component that inhibits cartilage destruction, stimulates cartilage repair, and increases joint lubrication. Adequan is best done as a series: an injection 1-2 times a week for 4-6 weeks, then as needed for maintenance (usually every 1-3 months).
The arthritic pet has numerous medications to select from and while this is an important part of therapy, weight control and proper exercise should not be forgotten. Consistent low impact exercise is excellent physical therapy for the arthritic pet and maintaining muscle mass helps support the joint. Massage and gentle flexion/extension of the joint may also help. Remember, treatment for joint disease is likely to involve a combination of medications in addition to physical activity and weight control.
For more specific recommendations for your pet, consult your veterinarian at Pearland Animal Hospital 281-485-2496.
-Dr. Tricia Trunek, DVM
