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Osteoarthritis in Pets
One of the most common conditions in older pets — and one of the most under-diagnosed. Many animals hide their pain until it is severe.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease in which the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually breaks down. As it wears away, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, inflammation, and the formation of bony spurs. It is a progressive condition — it cannot be reversed, but it can be managed.
It is estimated that up to 80% of dogs over the age of 8 have some degree of OA, and it is now recognised as equally common in cats — though cats are particularly skilled at hiding pain. Many animals are in significant discomfort for months or years before their owners notice.
Which Pets Are Affected?
Any pet can develop OA, but it is most common in older animals, larger dog breeds, and those who have had previous joint injuries or surgery. Certain breeds are predisposed — Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds in dogs; any older cat regardless of breed.
Obesity is a major risk factor and significantly worsens the condition. Even modest weight loss in an overweight pet can produce a meaningful reduction in pain.
Signs & Symptoms
Stiffness after rest
Difficulty getting up after sleeping, especially in the morning or after lying still for a long time.
Reduced mobility
Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or get in and out of the car. Shorter, slower walks.
Changes in gait
Lameness, bunny-hopping when running, or a shortened stride on one or more legs.
Irritability
Reacting when touched around painful joints. Uncharacteristic snapping or growling.
Reduced grooming (cats)
Cats stop being able to reach certain areas to groom — unkempt coat, especially over the rump and hindquarters.
Muscle wasting
Loss of muscle mass around affected limbs, particularly the hindquarters.
Toileting difficulties
Reluctance or inability to get into a litter tray or squat to toilet outside.
Behavioural changes
Becoming quieter, less playful, less interactive. Sleeping more than usual.
Diagnosis
Clinical examination remains the gold standard. A vet who watches your pet walk, stands them up, and palpates their joints will gain more information than any scan. X-rays can confirm joint changes but the severity on X-ray does not always correlate with pain levels — some animals have severe radiographic changes but relatively little pain, while others have significant pain with mild X-ray changes.
A gait analysis, pain assessment scale, and a thorough history from the owner are all part of a good OA assessment. Force plate analysis — measuring how much weight is placed on each leg — is available at specialist centres and provides objective data.
Management
OA cannot be cured but many animals live comfortably for years with good management. The most effective approach combines:
- ▸Pain relief: NSAIDs (anti-inflammatories) prescribed by a vet are the cornerstone of medical management. New options including monoclonal antibody injections (Librela for dogs, Solensia for cats) target pain at its source and are highly effective.
- ▸Weight management: Reducing body weight reduces the load on joints and is one of the most impactful interventions.
- ▸Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy: Carefully controlled exercise helps maintain muscle mass and joint mobility. Water-based exercise is ideal as it reduces joint loading.
- ▸Environmental modification: Ramps instead of stairs, raised food bowls, orthopaedic bedding, and non-slip surfaces can make a significant difference.
- ▸Joint supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine/chondroitin may provide modest benefit. The evidence is variable but they are safe and some pets respond well.
Quality of Life & When to Consider Euthanasia
The goal of OA management is comfort and a good quality of life — not a cure. When pain can no longer be adequately controlled, when your pet is distressed by their own limitations, or when the treatment itself is causing suffering, it is worth having an honest conversation about quality of life.
Signs that quality of life may be significantly compromised include: persistent pain despite maximised medication, inability to stand or walk, loss of interest in food or interaction, distress when toileting, or a clear deterioration in the things that gave your pet joy.
Is this affecting your pet?
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