How to recognise joint problems

As an owner you will understand the normal behaviour patterns exhibited by your pet.

Some joint problems occur spontaneously; these are called ‘acute’ joint problems.  Your pet will appear lame and you should seek immediate veterinary attention.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a slow and progressive disease which deteriorates with time.
 
Typical signs of OA in all animals include pain and lameness, stiffness -especially after a period of rest following exercise and an inability to perform certain tasks (such as jumping into the car or onto a chair). Cats will groom themselves less because they are sore and they may eat less, causing weight loss. Joints can become swollen or warm and dogs and cats may bite at irritating , painful joints. There may also be personality changes or increased aggression due to pain.

Talk to your vet if you are concerned about the possibility of OA developing or having already developed in your pet. Your vet can carry out a thorough clinical examination to assess your pets’ condition, take radiographs, if necessary to check for joint deterioration and decide a treatment and support programme for your pet.