Arthritis and Joint Pain in Pets
Arthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic pain in dogs and cats, especially as they age. Because pets rarely cry out, the signs are easy to miss or mistake for normal aging. At The Pet Clinic, our veterinarians help pets in Omaha, NE move more comfortably with accurate diagnosis, multimodal pain management and laser therapy.
What Causes Arthritis in Dogs and Cats?
Osteoarthritis develops when the cartilage that cushions a joint breaks down, leading to inflammation, bone changes and pain. It can be caused by age-related wear, hip or elbow dysplasia, previous injuries such as ligament tears, joint infections and excess body weight. Large breed dogs are prone to arthritis, but studies show the majority of senior cats also have joint disease.
Signs of Arthritis
- Stiffness when getting up, especially after rest
- Limping or favoring one leg
- Reluctance to jump, use stairs or go on walks
- Cats that stop jumping onto furniture or miss the litter box
- Licking or chewing at a joint
- Irritability when touched or picked up
- Muscle loss in the back legs
How We Diagnose Joint Pain
Diagnosis begins with a hands-on orthopedic exam during a sick visit or wellness exam. Our veterinarians check range of motion, swelling and pain response in each joint. Digital X-rays show bone changes and help rule out other causes of lameness, while bloodwork from our in-house laboratory confirms that pain medications are safe for your pet’s liver and kidneys.
Treatment Options for Arthritis
Arthritis cannot be cured, but it can be managed very well. We create a multimodal plan tailored to your pet, which may include:
- Laser therapy to reduce inflammation and pain without medication side effects
- Prescription anti-inflammatory and pain medications
- Monthly injectable arthritis therapies for dogs and cats
- Joint supplements and therapeutic diets through nutritional counseling
- Weight management, since extra pounds put added stress on sore joints
- Home changes such as rugs, ramps and raised bowls
For some injuries, such as ligament tears, surgery may be recommended. Keeping your pet lean is one of the most effective ways to slow arthritis, so we often address pet obesity as part of treatment. Senior pets with advanced arthritis may also benefit from our compassionate end of life and senior care guidance. Learn about other conditions we treat.
Pet Arthritis FAQs
At what age do pets get arthritis?
Arthritis is most common in senior pets, but it can begin in young dogs with hip or elbow dysplasia or previous joint injuries. Large breed dogs often show signs earlier than small breeds.
Do cats get arthritis?
Yes. Most senior cats have some degree of joint disease. Cats hide pain well, so signs like jumping less, sleeping more or missing the litter box are often the only clues.
Can I give my pet human pain medication for arthritis?
No. Many human pain relievers, including ibuprofen and acetaminophen, are toxic to pets. Always ask your veterinarian before giving any medication.
How does laser therapy help arthritis?
Laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to reduce inflammation, ease pain and improve circulation in affected joints. It is non-invasive, painless and can be combined with other treatments.
Does weight loss help pets with arthritis?
Yes. Even modest weight loss reduces stress on painful joints and can noticeably improve mobility and comfort.
Are joint supplements effective for pets?
Some supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and certain joint support products, can help as part of a broader plan. Our team can recommend quality options for your pet.
How do you diagnose arthritis in pets?
We use a hands-on orthopedic exam, observation of your pet’s gait and digital X-rays to evaluate joint changes and rule out other causes of lameness.
Help Your Pet Move Comfortably Again
If your dog or cat seems stiff, sore or less active, our team can help. Call The Pet Clinic at (402) 330-3096 or request an appointment to discuss arthritis care in Omaha, NE .