Ponsonby Tails - August 2008

Tuesday, Aug 5, 2008

 

Like us, cats and dogs start to slow down as they get older, and various health problems can arise. Everyday things like getting out of bed, going for a walk, jumping and grooming can be a huge effort, and sometimes very painful, due to problems like arthritis. Arthritis is the most common cause of impaired mobility in young and old dogs and affects up to one in three cats. It's a degenerating joint disease whereby pain and stiffness develops as a result of wear and tear of the joints. Dogs and cats are more stoic than us and tend to suffer in silence. That's why arthritis can go unnoticed until its quite advanced.

August is Arthritis Awareness Month at Ponsonby Veterinary Centre. We are offering an Arthritis Consultation and a 2 week trial on Metacam^® (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory liquid for the treatment of arthritis) for just $50!!!

 

 

Early Action for a better outcome

Early action means treatment will be more successful and your cat or dog will enjoy a healthier active life, for longer. Arthritis leads to a cycle of inflammation and cartilage destruction within joints. Breaking this cycle may slow the progression of arthritis in your pet. Just keep an eye out for any clues that may indicate increasing pain and stiffness, so that you can take the necessary action as quickly as possible.

Ask yourself these questions and if you have ticked any of these symptoms talk to one of the Vets at Ponsonby Veterinary Centre about the Metacam^® trial.

 

 

 

Management of Arthritis

Many other diseases can cause the same symptoms of pain and stiffness, e.g. back pain/disc disease or hormone imbalances. The first step is always a consultation with a veterinarian and complete physical examination. X-rays may be indicated to localise and assess the problem and recommend the best course of treatment. Arthritis of the knee in dogs is often caused by a torn cruciate ligament, which can be repaired surgically. Severe hip arthritis can be effectively treated with a total hip replacement!  But most dogs and cats with arthritis merely require small changes in their diet and lifestyle, along with supplements and medication to assist joint function and reduce discomfort, to enjoy a full and normal life. We now have many treatment options available that can significantly improve the quality of your pet's life, without the need for surgery.

Conservative Treatment Options for Cats and Dogs with Arthritis

Weight Management
Overweight animals often suffer with arthritis. Weight loss is the best way to reduce symptoms of arthritis in an overweight pet.

Provide a comfortable draft free bed
A cold drafty environment and hard floor can play havoc with aching joints. Provide a well padded bed in a warm part of the house.

Regular gentle exercise
Owners often make the mistake to stopping regular exercise with their arthritic pets. The old saying 'Use it or lose it' applies here. Gentle daily walks will help improve mobility. With cats encourage movement by making cats walk to their feed bowls, and using toys such as a toy mouse on a string.

Massage, physiotherapy, acupuncture and hydrotherapy
These are useful tools in improving circulation to the joints, aiding joint function and mobility. Massage and warm compresses are easy ways for you to improve joint circulation at home.

Joint supplements
Glucosamine and Chondroitin are natural building blocks of joint cartilage and can aid in the repair of cartilage within the joint. They may also have an anti-inflammatory action on joints. Unlike NSAIDs, these products do not produce rapid results, needing 4-6 weeks to reach peak effect. Their lack of side effects makes them an excellent choice for pets with sensitive stomachs.

Omega 3 fatty acids
Omega 3 oils have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and many arthritic dogs and cats benefit from supplementation. While there are no toxic issues to be concerned with, these products require at least one month to build up to adequate amounts.

Cartrophen injections
A course of 4 injections with numerous beneficial effects for the arthritis patient, including the inhibition of harmful enzymes involved in cartilage destruction, stimulation of cartilage repair and increasing joint lubrication.

Metacam
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) such as Metacam^® are very effective anti-inflammatories. Many dogs and cats take Metacam^® once a day to help them with painful joints. Owners often see a dramatic improvement in their pets demeanour, quality of life and activity levels while their pet is on Metacam^®.