Advancing OA Care
Before pain management can begin, pet owners must recognize the signs of the most common type of arthritis in dogs and cats.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis in pets, and is often associated with aging. However, it is not exclusive to older dogs and cats, said Courtney Pierce, DVM, Zoetis medical lead, canine pain. “In fact, in one study, researchers found 39% of dogs between the ages of 8 months and 4 years had radiographic signs of osteoarthritis in at least one joint!”
The progressive nature of the disease means proactive management is crucial in slowing its impact and alleviating pain and underscores the importance of routine preventative health care measures for pets, including at least annual physical exams with a veterinarian. Even though it is incurable, early intervention can help improve the quality of life for dogs and cats, regardless of their age, Dr. Pierce said.
Subtle signs
The pain of OA can impact a pet’s physical and emotional health. For dogs, signs of OA include, but are not limited to:
- Difficulty in going up or down stairs
- Lagging on walks
- Hesitation to jump up or down
- Limping after exercise
- Becoming more withdrawn
Dr. Pierce said pet owners should keep in mind that vocalization (crying, whimpering, or whining), is an uncommon way for pets to communicate that they are experiencing pain, especially if the pain is chronic in nature.
“That’s why seeking advice from a veterinary professional if changes in movement, behavior, or everyday activities are noted is so important,” she said.
The cause of feline osteoarthritis (OA) is less understood compared to other species, she said. Idiopathic, or primary OA, is the most common form, occurring without any obvious risk factor. Secondary OA, on the other hand, develops due to factors like trauma. Pain can negatively impact cognitive function, sleep patterns, sensitivity to environmental stimuli, and disrupt relationships with both humans and other household animals.
Cats tend to manifest OA pain differently than dogs. They often don’t show the typical signs like limping, and their ability to mask joint pain during exams makes it vital to partner with cat caregivers to screen for OA in the home setting, where subtle signs of pain and discomfort may be more apparent. It’s easier to identify when our cat’s behavior is abnormal by knowing their normal.
The most important first step for pet owners to take is to consult with their pet’s veterinary health team for assessment and diagnosis. If osteoarthritis is the suspected culprit, there are therapies available that can control the pain of osteoarthritis and restore dogs and cats to a more normal quality of life.
“After controlling the pain of osteoarthritis, the next steps are maintaining mobility, and slowing the progression by supporting joint health, exercise, weight maintenance, and environmental modifications,” she said. “Because osteoarthritis is not a curable condition, consistency in management is key to avoiding relapse.”
OA awareness
Zoetis has put an emphasis on consistent advocacy through several industry partnerships. The company has even partnered with organizations outside of veterinary medicine to spread the message. For example, last year, Zoetis and the Arthritis Foundation announced a two-year partnership to raise awareness of and provide educational resources about OA pain.
“We are deeply appreciative of Zoetis’ generous support and look forward to their onsite participation at several Jingle Bell Run and Walk to Cure Arthritis events in communities around the United States,” said Steven Taylor, Arthritis Foundation president and CEO. “Studies show that spending time with beloved pets can provide real physical and mental health benefits for people with arthritis, and we are pleased to have the support and partnership of the largest global animal health company.”
As part of the partnership, Zoetis will be a presenting sponsor of Jingle Bell Run through 2025 and Walk to Cure Arthritis through 2026.
“These types of activities that reach the public allow for educational opportunities to share resources about arthritis but will also provide a unique opportunity to connect with pet owners about OA and available treatments,” Dr. Pierce said.
For dog and cat owners
Fill out a simple assessment form to determine if a dog may be suffering from OA pain. Visit online by scanning the QR code https://dogoachecklist.com.
Help cat caregivers establish a normal baseline and screen for OA pain as an essential part of yearly routine vet visits.Visit online https://catoachecklist.com.
Photo credit: istockphoto.com/Emeli Belloc
