As the Fall weather approaches, the weather is beginning to chill and the leaves are starting to fall. For most of us, the excitement of the Holidays and change in scenery are thrilling, but for the sufferers of arthritis there is not much to look forward to. Cold days mean stiff joints, trouble getting out of bed and pain at almost all points of the day. Luckily, humans are able to ease the pain with medicine, warmth and heating pads. On the other hand, humans are not the only ones suffering from arthritis. Our pets like dogs and cats suffer too from joint pain. Pets suffer in the silence from the pain associated with arthritis because their owners are unaware of the symptoms and it is left untreated. Read the list below to discover the signs of arthritis in pets.
Signs of Arthritis in Pets:
- Lagging behind on walks
- Limping or appearing stiff after activity
- Reluctant to climb steps or jump
- Slow to rise after resting
If your pet begins to show these signs, there are several ways to ease their pain:
Joint Supplements
Glucosamine and Chondroitin are widely known for their roles in the support of joint health. Due to the overwhelming success in treating patients with osteoarthritis, these products have come to the forefront of therapy and are becoming the most popular products for supporting arthritis today.
Glucosamine is the major sugar found in glycosaminoglycans (GAG) and hyaluronate, which are important building blocks in the synthesis and maintenance of cartilage in the joint. Studies have shown that Glucosamine helps to improve cartilage metabolism and upregulates proteoglycan synthesis. Chondroitin is the predominant GAG found in articular cartilage. Chondrotin enhances the synthesis of GAGs and inhibits damaging enzymes in the joint. These active ingredients essentially help to aid in the reconstruction and lubrication of joints.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin products generally take at least six weeks to begin to heal the cartilage, and most animals need to be maintained on these products the rest of their lives to prevent further cartilage breakdown. These products are very safe and show very few side effects. There are many different glucosamine/chondroitin products on the market, but the best results are from products that contain pure ingredients that are human grade in quality.
Pet supplements that ease joint pain include Joint Max, LubriSyn, and Glyco Flex III
Weight Management
Managing your pet’s weight is a major factor in joint disease prevention and treatment that should be addressed. Helping a pet lose excess weight will ease the pain and stress on their joints. Supplements that help with weight management include Joint Treats, Vetri-Lean and Lean Dog.
Exercise is the next important step. Exercise that provides a good range of motion and muscle building while limiting wear and tear on the joints is best. Walking on a leash, swimming, walking on treadmills, slow jogging and going up and down stairs are excellent low-impact exercises. Whichever activity you choose for your pet, it should be kept to a minimum along with excessive play with other animals. Swimming is okay for extended periods of time and is highly recommended in extreme cases. For water play, check out Otis & Claude toys, they are durable, buoyant and great for exercising.
Warmth & Comfort
Most people with arthritis find that the signs tend to worsen in cold, damp weather. Keeping your arthritic pet warm, may help him be more comfortable. Canine Parkas will help keep joints warmer. Beds with orthopedic foam such as PetSafe Heated Wellness Beds distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on joints. They are also much easier for the pet to get out of. Place the bed in a warm spot away from drafts. Another great product that can make your pet more comfortable the Bottom's Up Leash, a hind-leg support harness for dogs with hip dysplasia, arthritis, or any other problem that affects the hind legs or spine. You should also avoid any unnecessary stair climbing. Ramps can be used to aid your pet if it has to climb.
Shan Serran
www.EntirelyPets.com
About Shan
Shan Serran is a die-hard pet lover here a EntirelyPets. I have an understanding that pet owners play the biggest role in the health and well being of their pets. So, I hope to bring you the best information to give your pet the healthiest and happiest life possible. I am your pet resource blogger that will deliver to you pet related articles,guides and so much more. I aim to keep the tails wagging! Ruff!
