2018 December Paso Robles Magazine

ROUND TOWN
Caring for Pets
and Their People!
By Dr. Ann Stacker, DVM
A RTHRITIS:
Is Your Pet in Pain?
our dog or cat can’t tell you
when they’re hurting, which
is why it is very important to be
“in tune” with even seemingly
minor changes in their behavior —
often the only sign that something
is wrong.
Arthritis in pets, like humans is
very common. It is estimated that
in the U.S. osteoarthritis (OA)
affects about half of all pets over
age seven. In pet OA, the cartilage
in joints that is supposed to provide
cushioning has given way and
the joint fluid is no longer able to
provide lubrication. Over time the
connective tissue surrounding the
joint becomes inflamed and eventually
bone rubs against bone. The
joint no longer moves smoothly
and can be a source of chronic pain,
negatively impacting quality of life.
The signs of arthritis are often
similar to signs of normal aging,
leading owners to conclude their
pet is simply “getting old” and “slowing
down” as opposed to actually
experiencing pain. It is also important
to note that both cats and
dogs tend to hide the signs of pain
very effectively, so how can you tell?
Beyond the most obvious symptom
of arthritis — a limping pet — there
are other signs, including a hunched
back posture, difficulty getting
up and down, and sleeping more.
Dogs often show less interest in play
or walks and a hesitancy to jump.
Cats will sometimes be reluctant to
go in and out of a litter box or climb
and may develop poor grooming
habits. Other noticeable indicators
in our pets are muscle atrophy, irritability
and changes in sociability.
Recognizing these signs of arthritis
is the first step to helping your dog
or cat stay comfortable as they age.
Though not curable, there are treatment
options and
ways to prevent further
joint damage
— the best thing is
to keep your pet at a
lean weight through regular exercise
and a healthy diet. Some therapeutic
diets and nutritional supplements
formulated specifically for arthritis
to reduce inflammation, target pain
pathways and support joint health
are an important option for addressing
pet mobility issues. Additionally,
changes in the home such as providing
well-padded beds or mats away
from cold or drafty areas, adding
ramps, rubber stair treads or nonskid
rugs on slippery floors can all
help as well to ease pressure and
wear and tear on deteriorated joints.
At the point where these efforts
aren’t enough, it is time to discuss
pain medications with your veterinarian.
The most effective treatment
Arthritis in pets, like humans is very common.
option is pet-specific nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
that can quickly revive the spirits of
pets by resolving their pain. While
these drugs are similar to human
NSAIDs and pain relievers such
as ibuprofen and aspirin, never give
human pain medications to your
cat or dog without speaking to your
veterinarian because these products
can be toxic and fatal for pets.
With knowledge, love, support
and proper care our pets can age
gracefully and comfortably.
Dr. Ann and her sister, Debbie
Stacker, co-own Paso Petcare
Veterinary Hospital, serving our
local community since 2000.
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14 | pasomagazine.com PASO Magazine, December 2018