Caring for a pet with Arthritis

This is a common condition that can result in chronic pain. Owners will often notice that their pet is less reluctant to exercise or looks a little stiff when they walk. There are pain relief and joint care medications that the vet can prescribe to make your animal more comfortable and there are also things you can do at home:

• Ensure resources (food, water and litter trays) are close by and easily accessible close to ground level
• Make sure cat litter trays have low sides for easy climbing in and out and provide a litter that is soft on the feet pads. Even if your cat usually goes outside to the toilet, it is a good idea to provide litter trays in the house for times when they do not feel up to going out. It is important to monitor faecal and urine output and consistency as changes can be an indicator for developing health problems.
• Pay close attention to your pet’s claws. We advise that you check these weekly as they are at risk of overgrowing as your animal becomes less active.
• Carpet and mats can provide more comfort for elderly pets walking around whereas wooden and laminate flooring can be slippery when they are less stable on their legs.
• Pet flaps – If your cat or dog usually uses a flap to access outdoors ensure they can get up to the flap ok, providing steps may aid them climbing in and out.
• Scratching posts – If your cat is suffering from arthritis, they may be reluctant to use a vertical scratching post as stretching up high may cause them pain. Horizontal scratching posts can be more comfortable for them.

Should you notice any changes in your pet’s behaviour, book an appointment with one of our veterinary surgeons to have them checked and discuss your concerns.