Arthritis - What Now?

Simple things like providing a nice, warm, flat bed without high edges, can make sleep much more comfy. Slippy floors can exacerbate pain for older larger dogs – many people resort to rugs everywhere! We can supply rubber boots which stop slipping really well, or if you prefer, on line there are rubber nails which can be affixed over the dogs’ own nails to increase grip.

Underfloor heat is a very helpful addition, if that is possible. Perhaps purchasing a heated under-bed mat might be worth considering – we can advise/supply. Providing a ramp to aid entry and exit from house/car can be immensely helpful also.

Cats with a back issue or arthritis may prefer a new low-profile litter tray, and may need water and food provided at ground level. Most modifications are common sense, but we have experience of them all – so do ask.

We aim to get your pet back to a good level of activity: it is important, however, to moderate the exercise especially in the early stages of treatment. We will advise on what is sensible on a case-by-case basis. 

Arthritis is painful – pets can hide discomfort, and struggle on uncomplaining: that does not mean they don’t hurt just like we do. Many, many owners may mistake “slowing down” as a sign of ageing: it may be of course, but more commonly it is a sign that they have back or joint pain. Showing restricted movement and appearing stiff on rising after rest is a classic arthritis symptom. We mustn’t ignore this useful clue, nor dismiss it as a minor problem. 

If we can observe the signs of pain, then pain is there!

We use several medications for pain: each has its’ own advantages and disadvantages.

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These are often the core of any pain-management regime. In the main, they are safe and effective. Each requires metabolisation and elimination from the body: thus we insist that for safety sake, we check liver and renal function at least every six months. They can also on occasion cause ulceration in the bowel, so we may prescribe tummy protectors alongside these great drugs to reduce the likelihood of any problems in that regard.
• Boswellia combined with Glucosamine and Chondritin sulphate (Nutraquin+): this supplement is of proven quality and is utterly free of adverse side effects. It both reduces pain, and offers some degree of long term protection to further joint degradation. In our opinion ALL our joint patients should be on this combination.
• EPA/DHA: These highly anti-inflammatory components of fish oil are available in Vetenox, a stable oral liquid concentrate. Again, we believe ALL our joint patients will benefit from long-term administration of this product, as it too has no known side-effects. Most of the staff at Cedarmount Vets (of a certain age, LOL!) take the human version (Paradox), for their own joints: need we say more?
• Tramadol: This opioid drug is remarkably safe in dogs and cats, although in actual fact its’ real efficacy has yet to be proven in our species. It does not cause delirium or constipation – common side effects in humans on tramadol
• Paracetamol and codeine: there is a licensed and tested version of this combination for dogs: NOT CATS (it kills cats!). We frequently prescribe it alongside a more potent drug to improve pain management
• Gabapentin, Amantadine, Amitriptyline: these are non-licensed drugs we occasionally resort to in very difficult cases
• Cartrophen injection course: sometimes, particular patients benefit from a four week course of this drug. Effects are variable, but side effects are few. It has earned its’ place in our armoury against this disease
• New monthly injection targets Nerve Growth Factor in arthritic joints: We have been delighted at the response to this new approach - really dramatic improvement in pain levels with increased comfort and mobility - and importantly - no side effects!

We recommend all dogs and cats, but especially those with joint disease, have a body condition of between 4/9 and 6/9. Our team of vet nurses are all available to advise on diet so we can optimise this important factor. Weight Clinic appointments are free of charge: why not make an appointment now?