Pets, like humans, can experience joint problems such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other degenerative joint diseases. These conditions can cause pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility, which can significantly impact their quality of life and lifespan.
In this article, we will explore six essential ways to help treat and prevent arthritis in dogs and cats using a caring and scientific approach.
How to Identify If Your Cat or Dog Has Sore JointsÂ
Both cats and dogs tend to avoid showing pain, but there are ways to tell if your pet is experiencing discomfort. Dogs may run slower, fall behind on walks, hesitate to jump on furniture, or whine and whimper. Cats may ease themselves down from high surfaces, become irritated when petted, or have trouble grooming themselves properly.
As pet owners, it is our responsibility to prioritise the well-being and comfort of our beloved companions. A crucial aspect of cat and dog health care is protecting their joints, which play a vital role in their mobility and overall quality of life.
So let’s explore six essential ways to safeguard your pet’s joint health to combat hip dysplasia, degenerative joint diseases, and arthritis in dogs and cats.
1.  Maintain a Healthy WeightÂ
Maintaining a healthy weight is vital for optimal joint health in pets. Excess weight places significant stress on their joints, leading to increased wear and tear and a higher risk of joint degeneration.
- Consult with your veterinarian to determine the ideal weight range for your pet based on their breed, size, and age.
- Implement a healthy, balanced diet and strictly control their food portions to ensure they receive the appropriate nutrients without excessive caloric intake.
- Regular exercise is also crucial for weight management and joint health.
2.  Implement Joint-Friendly ExerciseÂ
Engaging your dog in regular, joint-friendly exercise is essential for protecting their joint health and mobility.
- Choose activities with low impact and stress on their joints, particularly for pets prone to or already experiencing joint issues.
- Low-impact exercises such as swimming, gentle walks, and controlled play sessions help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and maintain joint mobility.
- Consult with your veterinary physiotherapist to develop an exercise routine tailored to your pet’s specific needs and limitations.
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3.  Provide a Balanced Diet:Â
It is advisable to prioritise natural, whole foods in your pet’s diet to minimise the consumption of processed foods and reduce the potential for joint inflammation. Foods that are processed and high in artificial preservatives, flavours, and colours are often associated with an increased risk of inflammation and may exacerbate joint conditions such as arthritis. The body’s immune system can react to these artificial substances, triggering an inflammatory response that can contribute to joint discomfort and pain.
- A well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet not only improves your pet’s health but also plays an essential role in the development and management of arthritis in dogs and cats.
- Certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish and other marine sources, as well as the nutrients found in feline and canine superfoods, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce arthritis symptoms.
- Antioxidants, like vitamins C and E found in fruits and vegetables, protect joint tissues from inflammatory degeneration.
- Calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium-rich foods, such as plain yoghurt, goat’s milk, and leafy greens, support healthy bones and prevent conditions that worsen arthritis in dogs and cats.
4.  Consider Joint Supplements Â
Certain Cat or Dog Breeds, Performance or Service Dogs, Ageing Pets, and Pets with Joint Disease:Â
- Certain dog breeds like Great Danes, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and Boxers may be prone to arthritis and hip dysplasia.
- Performance dogs participating in sports like flyball, flying disc, dog agility, carting, gundog field trials, IGP, IPO, and service dogs undergo rigorous physical training, which can place additional strain on their joints. The repetitive movements, high-impact activities, and intense training sessions involved in these sports can lead to increased wear and tear on the joints.
- Ageing pets and those with joint disease often experience a certain degree of joint degeneration. As pets get older or develop conditions like arthritis, the cartilage that cushions their joints may deteriorate, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This degeneration can significantly impact their overall quality of life.
Whatever your pet’s health condition or activity level, proactively caring for their joints with natural cat and dog health supplements that promote musculo-skeletal health can protect their mobility, reduce the risk of joint-related conditions, alleviate pain and discomfort, and contribute to their overall well-being and quality of life.
Incorporating high quality joint supplements like the Untamed Hip and Joint Pet’s Health Supplement, which contains ingredients like Curcumin Extract, Glucosamine, Collagen, Boswellia Extract, Chondroitin sulphate, Omega-3 and anti-inflammatory superfoods, provides significant additional support for joint health and mobility. In their researched concentrations, these ingredients have been proven to effectively reduce inflammation, support bone and cartilage health, and enhance joint function.Â
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5.  Regular Veterinary Check-ups and Early InterventionÂ
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for monitoring your pet’s joint health and detecting any early signs of joint problems like hip dysplasia or arthritis in dogs or cats.
Your veterinarian and veterinary physiotherapist can:
- perform thorough examinations,
- assess joint function,
- identify potential issues before they progress and
- provide appropriate treatment and exercise programs to protect the joints and enhance mobility.
Early intervention is key to managing joint conditions effectively and reducing further damage.
6.  Safeguard Your Pet’s EnvironmentÂ
Make your home safe and comfortable for your pet’s mobility.
- Use rugs or non-slip booties on slippery surfaces.
- Provide a ramp or stairs to help your pet reach the bed.
- Limit staircase use.
Conclusion:Â
Protecting your pet’s mobility and providing the correct cat and dog health care supplements is a proactive and caring approach that can significantly enhance their overall well-being. Remember, each pet is unique, so consult with your veterinarian or veterinary physiotherapist to develop a personalised joint care plan tailored to their specific needs. With proper care and attention, you can help your beloved companion live a happy, healthy, and pain-free life.
Together, let’s help your loved one keep enjoying life to its fullest, by your side, for as long as possible.
Contact us to receive guidance on the best pet health care. Dr. Jeanne-Marie Lambrechts, our expert naturopath, will respond directly to your inquiries.
BONUS: About Untamed Animal Health Pet Care Supplements (Video): Watch Here.
References:Â
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9511324/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7198754/
https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/top-10-herbs-for-natural-pain-relief/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9447376/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9863568/
