Arthritis in Pets: How to Spot It Early and Help Your Furry Friend Feel Better

3 min read

As pets get older, it’s common for them to slow down a little—but if you’ve noticed your dog hesitating to jump on the couch or your cat avoiding the stairs, arthritis could be the culprit. Just like in humans, arthritis in pets causes joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, making everyday activities more challenging.

The good news? With early detection and the right treatment plan, you can help your furry companion stay comfortable and active for years to come.

In this post, we’ll cover what arthritis is, common signs to watch for, treatment options, and how to make life easier for pets living with joint pain.

Why Arthritis Happens in Pets

Arthritis is inflammation of the joints, most often caused by wear and tear over time (osteoarthritis) or, less commonly, immune-related joint issues. While it’s more common in senior pets, younger animals can also develop arthritis due to injuries, hip dysplasia, or other joint problems.

Dogs, especially larger breeds, are more prone to arthritis, but cats can suffer from it too—though they often hide their discomfort better.

Signs Your Pet Might Have Arthritis

Because pets can’t tell us when they’re hurting, spotting arthritis requires paying close attention to changes in behavior, such as:

• Limping or favoring one leg

• Stiffness, especially after resting

• Hesitation to jump, climb stairs, or play

• Reduced activity or shorter walks

• Irritability when touched near joints

• Muscle loss in affected limbs

📌 Tip: If your pet seems “slower” but you’re not sure why, take a short video of their movement and show it to your vet—it can help with diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Arthritis in Pets

While there’s no cure for arthritis, there are many ways to manage pain and improve mobility:

1. Veterinary Examination & Diagnosis - Your vet may recommend X-rays, blood work, or other tests to confirm arthritis and rule out other issues.

2. Medications

   • NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) reduce inflammation and pain.

   • Joint supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin help support cartilage health.

   • Pain relief medications like gabapentin or tramadol can be added when needed.

💡 Using a prescription discount card can significantly reduce the cost of ongoing medications—especially if they’re human-equivalent drugs you can fill at a regular pharmacy.

3. Lifestyle & Home Adjustments

   • Provide orthopedic pet beds for extra joint support

   • Use ramps or steps to help them reach favorite spots

   • Keep nails trimmed to improve traction

   • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint strain

4. Alternative Therapies

   • Physical therapy or hydrotherapy

   • Acupuncture

   • Laser therapy for pain relief

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Important Considerations

• Never give human pain meds (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) to pets without veterinary guidance—they can be toxic.

• Early intervention is key. The sooner you start treatment, the better the long-term outcome.

• Regular check-ups help your vet adjust the treatment plan as your pet’s needs change.

  
  

The Takeaway

Arthritis doesn’t have to mean the end of playtime or long walks. With proper care, medication, and lifestyle adjustments, pets with arthritis can still enjoy a happy, active life.

💵 Lower Costs – Fill eligible arthritis medications at human pharmacies with a prescription discount card.

🏠 Better Quality of Life – Small home changes can make a big difference in comfort.

🩺 Ongoing Care – Partner with your vet to keep your pet moving and pain-free.