Arthritis

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Arthritis is a condition involving the swelling or inflammation of one or more joints in the dog or cat.

SOURCE & CAUSE(S)

Most arthritis is related to age.  However, an injury or disease of the affected area are also common causes.  There are generally two types of arthritis:

• Rheumatoid arthritis - This is an immune - mediated disease where the immune system attacks the healthy joint tissue and is a progressive disease.  This is very uncommon.
• Osteoarthritis - This is the kind of arthritis most humans and dogs suffer from;it is seen much less in cats.  Osteoarthritis is the result of damage to the cartilage around a joint usually from some type of injury where new bone is formed around the joint causing stiffness and pain.  The normal aging process can be a major factor in this as well.

 SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Pain and stiffness in the joints
• Lameness
• Swelling around joints
• Loss of appetite or depression may show as your pet is in pain.

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS

Diagnosis begins with a complete history and a physical exam.  Your veterinarian will most likely do the following:

• CBC/Chemistry Panel - These blood tests will evaluate various internal organ functions, including the heart, liver, kidneys, pancreas, metabolism, and electrolyte balance. The CBC (Complete blood count) is a measure the amount and different kinds of red and white blood cells are present in the body.
• Radiographs - This will show the affected area(s) and help your veterinarian determine where and what type of arthritis your pet has.
  

TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT

Treatment options will depend on the degree of severity at time of diagnosis.  The treatments for arthritis include the following:

• Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs if the arthritis is result of infection. 
• Calorie reducing diet if obesity is a factor.
• Surgical repair of bony tissue to relieve arthritis symptoms.
• A long-term course of steroids and anti-inflammatory agents.
• Dietary supplements added to the diet to encourage new cartilage growth in joint.

PREVENTION & HELPFUL TIPS

There is no proven method to prevent arthritis.