By Sonnya Crawford

Arthritis is a common condition in both pets and people. It is not a disease in itself, but rather an informal way of referring to joint pain or joint disease. The definition of arthritis is “inflammation of one or more joints.”

When your pet has arthritis, you will notice pain and stiffness that typically worsens with age. It can develop from a previous joint infection, congenital malformation of the basic skeletal structure, or trauma to the joints and bones.

You veterinarian can diagnose arthritis and prescribe medications and supplements that can improve your pet’s quality of life. Some pets show significant improvement with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, while others benefit from multiple medications used together.

Often after the arthritis has progressed, medications need to be changed or new ones can be added to keep your pet comfortable. But your pet can have considerable improvement in quality of life with a little management.

A multi-modal approach to arthritis is encouraged. This could include massage, acupressure, acupuncture, laser treatment and swimming in addition to supplements and medications. Often traditional medications can be decreased when these treatments are implemented.

Massage can have profound effects on the pet’s muscles, tendons and ligaments — the supporting structures of the joints. Additionally, massage can help the pet regain a more balanced posture, which in turn reduces stress on the joints. Both massage and acupressure help the body to release endorphins, the feel-good hormone, and reduce stress and anxiety.

Warm-water swimming increases flexibility and builds the muscles that help support the joints, which leads to less pain and stress on the joints. Laser, massage and acupressure alleviate chronic pain and promote the body’s ability to heal.

Pets do not cry out when they are in pain from arthritis, but they may show some combination of these symptoms:

• Resting with limbs in an unusual position

• Limping

• Difficulty jumping

• Difficulty sitting or lying down

• Walking more slowly

• Walking with a wobble or head bob

• Sleeping more than usual

• Showing less interest in playing

• Becoming less social

With a multi-modal approach, you can make a difference in your pet’s health and improve the symptoms of arthritis so that he can lead a pain-free life.

Sonnya Crawford, DVM, is a veterinarian at Grays Harbor Veterinary Services in Montesano. Her pets include two cats, numerous parrots, a giant bunny and saltwater fish. Her special interests are in avian medicine, veterinary dermatology and dentistry. Reach her at drsonnya@gmail.com.