Caring for Your Arthritic Pet: Ways to Ease the Pain and Make Life More Comfortable

As our pets age, they can develop different health problems. One common condition in older pets is arthritis. Like in humans, arthritis is the inflammation of the joints and can cause pain, stiffness, and lameness.

One of the symptoms of arithmetic pets is a behavior change. Your arthritic pet may become more lethargic and less active than usual. They may also sleep more, have a decreased appetite, and move reluctantly.

And as a pet owner, seeing our dogs in pain is heartbreaking. So, the first thing we would want is to do everything we can to ease their discomfort. Here are some ways you can care for your arthritic pet and make their life more comfortable:

 

Bring them to a professional vet.

Your veterinarian can prescribe pain medication and anti-inflammatory drugs to help relieve your arthritic pet’s pain. They may also recommend supplements, physical therapy, or acupuncture.

 

Provide a soft, comfortable bed for them to sleep in.

It is critical to provide a supporting bed for thin dogs, whose bones may otherwise scrape against hard surfaces, causing discomfort. You can find arthritis beds for dogs in some pet retailers.

 

Give them regular massages.

Massaging your arthritic pet can help increase blood circulation, which will, in turn, help reduce pain and inflammation. It’s also a great way to bond with your pet!

 

Make sure they get plenty of exercises.

This will help to keep their joints supple and muscles strong. But make sure to consult with your veterinarian first, as they will be able to tailor an exercise plan that’s right for your arthritic pet.

 

Maintain a healthy weight and eat a balanced diet.

Extra weight puts additional strain on arthritic joints, so it’s essential to maintain a healthy weight. A balanced diet is also crucial for overall health and well-being. You can include glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and omega-3 fatty acids in a special diet to help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis.

 

Supplement their diet with joint-health supplements.

Joint-health supplements can help to reduce pain and inflammation in arthritic pets. They may also help to slow the progression of the disease. Supplements are available in powder, tablet, or liquid form and can be mixed with food or given orally. But ask your vet first before giving any supplements to your arthritic pet.

 

Stone Oak Is the Only Place You Need to Go to Take Care of Your Pet

Caring for an arthritic pet can be challenging but seeing our furry friends happy and comfortable is so rewarding. With patience and extra care, we can make their Golden Years as enjoyable as possible. Here at Stone Oak Veterinary Clinic, we assure you we take care of your pet like they’re one of our own.

We provide the necessary treatments and services to improve the quality of your pet’s life. This includes customizing a care plan that will fit your and your pet’s needs. And most of all, we assure you pet parenting peace of mind.

So, if you’re looking for a place to take care of your arthritic pet, look no further than Stone Oak Veterinary Clinic!

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us.