Overview
With the medical and nutritional advances that have occurred in veterinary medicine, our pets are living longer and healthier lives. However, living longer means more pets are now experiencing problems related to the aging process.
A common age-related problem is arthritis and the discomfort it may cause. The good news is that many medications have been developed to safely deal with chronic pain in both dogs and cats. These can range from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (or NSAIDs) or nutraceuticals and other naturally-occurring remedies.
Treating the Pains of Arthritis
The first tip is to try and limit the need for medications by ensuring that the joints are not overworked by carrying too much weight or engaging in over-eager exercise. Ensure that your pet is in the right weight range for its body size and conformation and, while continued exercise is good, be cautious of taking it on long walks or engaging in excessive play. Bursts of aggressive exercise can casue immense soreness for an arthritic prone and out-of-shape pet. Swimming, on the other hand is an ideal exercise as it allows the muscles to get a work-out without putting weight on the joints.
NSAIDs
NSAIDs are products that can be found in virtually everyone’s medicine cabinet. Examples include Aspirin™, acetominophen, Motrin™, and ibuprofen. For instance Asprin™ can have tremendous benefits if used properly and under veterinary supervision. These medications can also be harmful, especially in cats and if used without consulting your veterinarian first
There are also many newer NSAIDs specifically designed for animals that can be used to treat chronic pain. Examples include Metacam™ and Rimadyl™. Like any NSAIDs, there are potential side effects and every pet should be thoroughly assessed by way of a physical examination and blood testing before these medications are prescribed. There has been a link discovered between Rimadyl™ and liver disease in Labrador retrievers so these medications may not be for every pet. However, for those pets able to take the newer NSAIDs, the results are often quite positive for many bed-bound pets.
Natural Remedies
Regarding the use of herbal remedies to assist with arthritis control, one field that is growing rapidly is the area of nutraceuticals. Nutraceuticals are based on naturally-occurring products that have been shown to assist in the control of pain associated with arthritis. One example is refined fish oils, especially those high in omega-3 fatty acids which can act as natural anti-inflammatory medications. Another group of nutraceuticals employs either glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, or both. Both of these active ingredients have been shown to increase the lubricating properties of the fluid that bathes the joint making movement less painful.
There is also a version available for use by injection by your veterinarian. Many different trade names exist and while they may not be as potent as the NSAIDs, symptoms of pain often subside within 4 to 6 weeks and these medications can be given in conjunction with NSAIDs, often reducing the amounts needed.
As for other naturally-occurring remedies such as herbal products, caution should be exercised as many designed for use in arthritis contain similar ingredients as NSAIDs and, as they are not as stringently regulated, the quantities contained can vary and they may create toxicities when used in conjunction with other arthritis relief medications.