Pet arthritis can significantly reduce the quality of your pet’s life. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to know how to treat pet arthritis without professional help from a veterinarian. That's why it's important to get help from a vet as soon as you notice signs of pet arthritis. At Parkway Animal Hospital in Grand Prairie, TX, we want to help pets get the care they need to be able to walk freely and live free of pain. Read on to learn more about pet arthritis and how it is treated.
What Causes Pet Arthritis?
Pets have cushioning in between the joints known as cartilage. This cartilage allows the joints to move freely without rubbing against each other. As pets age, this cartilage starts to deteriorate in a condition known as osteoarthritis. This leads to pain, inflammation, and immobility. This osteoarthritis can lead to severe pain and symptoms such as limping, not wanting to put pressure on a certain leg or shoulder, mood changes, and changes in activity levels. If you notice any of these signs in your cats or dogs, it's time to visit a veterinarian right away for help.
What Treatment Does a Veterinarian Provide?
Your veterinarian will conduct a full physical exam on your pet, as well as take x-rays to determine if your pet is suffering from arthritis or another condition that is causing joint pain. Arthritis can appear in the hips, legs, ankles, shoulders, and other parts of your pet's body. Your vet will recommend treatment for pet arthritis to help ease the symptoms of pain, which can include medications to reduce inflammation related to arthritis, changes in lifestyle such as incorporating exercises, and changes in diet.
Find the Best Pet Care At Parkway Animal Hospital
At Parkway Animal Hospital, we care about your pet's health and want to provide the best pet arthritis treatment possible to keep them comfortable. Call us today at (972) 263-7277 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our chiropractor.