Do you notice your pet slowing down or in pain? They may be suffering from Arthritis, an inflammatory disease that affects the joints. All types of dogs and cats can be affected, reducing their quality of life. Here are 8 common signs of Arthritis in dogs and cats to look out for.
Trouble walking or running
Dogs and and cats love being outdoors going for a walk or hunting. If you notice your pet’s mobility decreasing or getting worse, it may be a sign of Arthritis developing.
Limping
Moving slower than normal
Dogs and cats are active animals and love their bit of exercise. If you notice your pet moving slower than usual, it may be an early indicator of Arthritis and should be looked at by the vet.
Stiffness
If you notice your pet getting stiff especially when they get up from a long rest, it may be another sign of early Arthritis forming.
Reluctance to play
If your furry friend is not wanting to play as much as they previously did, they may be in pain from physical activity, which is commonly caused by Arthritis.
Difficulty with stairs or jumping
If your pet who once went up and down the stairs with ease now finds it difficult, it is a clear indicator of pain and should be taken to the vet.
Repeatedly licking joints
The occasional licking is no cause for concern, however if you see your pet licking their joints more often, it may be a sign of pain from Arthritis.
Restless at night
Sometimes our pets just love annoying us at nighttime or waking us up at all hours in the morning. However, if you feel that your pet is becoming more restless at night, it may be an indicator of pain caused from Arthritis.
Studies have shown that Arthritis is the most common cause of chronic pain in pets, especially older dogs over 8 years old. It’s important to keep an eye out for the signs of Arthritis to keep our furry friends happy and healthy while they are living their best lives.
If you suspect your pet may have Arthritis and is experiencing some of these signs, please don’t hesitate to make an appointment at our vet clinic, we are more than happy to help you with your pets needs!