Preventing arthritis from becoming a problem for your dog or cat may not an entirely realistic goal. However, there are a few things that a pet owner can do to at least help reduce the risk and even lessen the severity of disease if it does occur.
Factors that Contribute to the Development of Arthritis in Dogs and Cats
Many factors play a role in whether a dog or cat becomes arthritic. Genetics, aging and changes in the joint from injuries or trauma commonly cause arthritis. As a result, many cases of arthritis are not preventable.
However, some of these factors can be manipulated so that they are less likely to play a role in the development of arthritis for your dog or cat.
Managing Weight to Reduce the Possibility of Arthritis in Your Dog or Cat
Helping your pet to maintain a lean body condition is probably the single most important thing you can do to minimize the risk of arthritis.
Pets that are overweight or obese are more prone to arthritis, along with many other medical issues. The excess weight places additional strain on joints. That strain can cause cartilage damage which ends in arthritic changes within the joints.
Another aspect of being overweight or obese is the fact that fat is an endocrine organ (an organ that secretes hormones). Some of the hormones secreted by fat promote inflammation that causes pain. Keeping a pet lean helps avoid these complications.
Regular Exercise Can Help Keep Pets Free of the Symptoms of Arthritis
Regular exercise helps to keep joints and muscles healthy and strong. Exercise is also an important part of maintaining your pet at a proper weight.
Prevent Injuries That Can Lead to Feline or Canine Arthritis Later in Life
Previous injuries are a common cause of arthritis that develops over time in the injured joint. While preventing these injuries may not be entirely possible, any injuries that can be prevented can lessen the possibility that arthritis will plague your dog or cat.
Efforts to prevent injuries may focus on not allowing your pet to run at large and walking your dog on leash rather than off to prevent car accidents and similar forms of trauma.
The Role of Genetics in the Development of Arthritis in Dogs and Cats
This is another area that a pet owner may not have much control over. However, breeders can focus on producing puppies and kittens that are free of congenital defects that cause arthritis. Hip dysplasia is a very good example of a disease which will eventually lead to arthritic changes. Though breeding puppies free of hip dysplasia will not completely remove the potential for arthritis to develop from other causes, it reduces the risk considerably.
Though pet owners may not have the ability to control all of the factors that can lead to arthritis for their dog or cat, there are a few factors that are under their control. Keeping the dog or cat at an ideal body weight and providing regular exercise are the two most important things a pet owner can do for their pet in the fight against arthritis.